National Drinking Water Policy Takes Center Stage As AMWA Opens 2026 Water Policy Conference

Washington, D.C. — The Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies (AMWA) opens its 2026 Water Policy Conference today in Washington, D.C., convening leaders of the nation's largest publicly owned drinking water systems for high‑level engagement on the federal policy and regulatory issues shaping the sector. Held alongside Water Week, the conference brings utility executives together for three days of dialogue with federal policymakers and congressional leaders.

The conference opens with keynote remarks from Mike Allen, Co‑Founder and Executive Editor of Axios, who will provide an inside look at the current political landscape and its implications for water policy in 2026. His address set the stage for an afternoon of member‑driven discussions, including a panel on PFAS compliance and a presentation on lead identification strategy, followed by a WaterISAC threat briefing on emerging security risks.

The program continues Tuesday with Marc Caputo, Senior Politics Reporter at Axios, offering additional perspective on national policy trends. Federal agency leaders, including Jennifer McLain, Director of EPA's Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water, will outline the agency's regulatory priorities for the year, including PFAS, Lead and Copper Rule Improvements, and other key drinking water initiatives. Members of Congress, including Rep. Paul Tonko (D‑N.Y.) and Rep. Gary Palmer (R‑Ala.), will also share their views on water infrastructure, affordability, and federal investment needs.

On Wednesday, AMWA members will travel to Capitol Hill for meetings with lawmakers and staff to advocate for the sector's top priorities. Attendees are encouraged to share AMWA's 2026 Legislative Agenda during their visits.

The Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies (AMWA) has been the unified and definitive voice for the nation's largest publicly owned water systems for over 40 years. AMWA's membership serves more than 160 million people with safe drinking water.