A massive sewage spill in the Merrimack River has prompted calls from the Massachusetts congressional delegation for federal investment. The spill has shuttered beaches and halted shellfish operations, causing a regional crisis.

Local Impact

Democratic leaders in the state, including Rep. Seth Moulton and Rep. Lori Trahan, are seeking long-term funding to replace aging water infrastructure and rapid response dollars for emergencies like this one. They have written a letter to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin, spotlighting programs like the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant Program.

The EPA has stated that it received the letter and will respond through the appropriate channels. The agency worked closely with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection and the City of Haverhill to stop the direct discharge of wastewater into the Merrimack River and continues to be involved in long-term repairs.

Federal Response

The Trump Administration has emphasized the importance of clean water for every American, stating that reliable water infrastructure is essential to protecting human health, supporting local economies, and safeguarding the nation’s waterways. The EPA continues to work with federal, state, and local partners to support investments in critical water infrastructure.

Sens. Ed Markey and Elizabeth Warren, along with Rep. Trahan, have filed a bill that would amend federal policy to allow towns like Haverhill to apply for emergency grants during similar spills. Rep. Moulton has also secured an amendment to boost Haverhill water infrastructure investment from $40 million to $50 million.

Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.