Senate Clears Water Bill With Flint Aid, Disputed California Rider

"After a weeklong battle over last-minute policy riders, the Senate passed a major water bill in the early morning hours Saturday that includes emergency aid for Flint, Mich., and drought relief for California.

The nearly $12 billion measure, which authorizes 30 new infrastructure projects around the country, now heads to the president’s desk.

Senators backed the legislation in a 78-21 vote to boost U.S. ports, damns and waterways. It authorizes $170 million in aid for the drinking water crisis in Flint, where water from the Flint River corroded the pipes and contaminated the city’s water supply with lead. "

Melanie Zanona reports for The Hill December 10, 2016.

Source: The Hill, 12/12/2016