Critical Releases in Homeland Security: February 28, 2018

"I have enclosed with this message my Administration's framework for rebuilding infrastructure in America. Our Nation's infrastructure is in an unacceptable state of disrepair, which damages our country's competitiveness and our citizens' quality of life. For too long, lawmakers have invested in infrastructure inefficiently, ignored critical needs, and allowed it to deteriorate. As a result, the United States has fallen further and further behind other countries. It is time to give Americans the working, modern infrastructure they deserve. To help build a better future for all Americans, I ask the Congress to act soon on an infrastructure bill that will: stimulate at least $1.5 trillion in new investment over the next 10 years, shorten the process for approving projects to 2 years or less, address unmet rural infrastructure needs, empower State and local authorities, and train the American workforce of the future."

"There is a growing global water crisis that may increase disease, undermine economic growth, foster insecurity and state failure, and generally reduce the capacity of countries to advance priorities that support U.S. national interests. To address these challenges and contribute to a healthier, safer, and more prosperous world, the United States will work to support a water secure world where people have sustainable supplies of water of sufficient quantity and quality to meet human, economic, and ecosystem needs while managing risks from floods and droughts. This work will be guided by four interconnected strategic objectives: Increasing sustainable access to safe drinking water and sanitation services, and the adoption of key hygiene behaviors; Encouraging the sound management and protection of freshwater resources; Promoting cooperation on shared waters; and, Strengthening water-sector governance, financing, and institutions."