What are the health risks associated with sewage floods in Cahokia Heights?

Sewage floods can lead to illnesses from exposure to untreated sewage, including intestinal parasites and bacteria like H. pylori.

Why have funding cuts impacted environmental justice initiatives?

The Trump administration eliminated the EPA's Environmental Justice office, viewing such grants as part of a "radical agenda" rather than essential infrastructure for underserved communities.

How much funding is needed for US water infrastructure?

Flooding and water quality needs over the next two decades are estimated to be at least $630 billion.

Home / Environment / Sewage Floods Plague US Towns: Funding Cuts Worsen Crisis

Sewage Floods Plague US Towns: Funding Cuts Worsen Crisis

9 Jan

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Summary

Untreated sewage floods homes, causing illness and property damage.
Funding for critical infrastructure repairs has been canceled or cut.
Environmental justice initiatives targeting underserved communities are at risk.

Sewage Floods Plague US Towns: Funding Cuts Worsen Crisis

Recurring sewage floods are devastating communities nationwide, particularly in predominantly Black and low-income areas, due to aging and decrepit wastewater systems. Residents in places like Cahokia Heights, Illinois, face raw sewage inundating their homes, causing extensive damage and health concerns, with some reporting infections like H. pylori and hookworms. Despite the urgent need for repairs, funding promised through initiatives like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has been canceled or significantly reduced, especially under the Trump administration's stated opposition to environmental justice programs.

Advocates criticize the mischaracterization of these essential infrastructure needs as "DEI programs," emphasizing that the problems are rooted in critical health and dignity issues. Communities in Alabama and Georgia have already seen grants for septic systems and sewer line upgrades canceled. The proposed cuts to state revolving loan funds and the review of programs like FEMA's infrastructure funding further jeopardize projects already underway or desperately needed.