On Friday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a $740 billion spending package, giving final congressional approval to the Biden-backed measure. The Inflation Reduction Act aims resources toward addressing climate change, lowering deficits, and reducing drug costs for seniors.
Congressman Greg Stanton voted in favor of the bill. He says it will bolster water conservation efforts in the Southwest.
“There’s gonna be $4 billion to the Bureau of Reclamation to help us better conserve water, and allow us to use less water which is gonna help us sustain the life of the Colorado River,” Stanton said.
The bill also puts $375 billion toward curbing the nation’s carbon emissions. President Biden is expected to sign the measure next week.
Republican Congressman David Schweikert voted against the bill, arguing it does not address the core issue.
“The bill provides lots and lots of subsidies,” Schweikert said. “So the Democrats hand out money instead of actually fixing the structural problem.”
No Republicans in either chamber of Congress supported the bill. The Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry also opposed the legislation.