SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE $317 THOUSAND IN EPA FUNDING FOR THE SENECA NATION OF INDIAN’S CONTINUING ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS

Federal Funding Gives Seneca Nation Ability To Address Environmental Priorities And Concerns

Senators Say Funding Helps Protect And Improve Water Quality, Redevelop Brownfields Sites, Support GAP Program, & Remediate Waste 

Schumer, Gillibrand: EPA Funding Improves Quality Of Life For Seneca Nation

U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $317,577 in federal funding allocated for the Seneca Nation of Indians by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as part of the Performance Partnership Grant (PPG). The senators say the funding will continue the Seneca Nation’s environmental programs while giving it greater flexibility to address its highest environmental priorities, improve environmental performance, achieve administrative savings, and strengthen the partnership between the Seneca Nation and the EPA.

Specifically, the grant funds the Seneca Nation’s programs to protect and improve water quality; address the assessment, cleanup, and redevelopment of Brownfields sites; support Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP) program development and capacity building; and remediate solid waste or hazardous waste.

“Every New Yorker deserves safe drinking water, clean air, and a hazard-free community,” said Senator Schumer. “The federal government should do everything in its power to invest in tribal communities like the Seneca Nation and make sure they have the proper tools necessary to improve their quality of life. I am proud to deliver this funding for the Seneca Nation and will continue to fight for funds to help native communities better address their environmental priorities and respond to hazards.”

“Access to clean air and clean water is a right we must fight to protect,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The Seneca Nation is a vital part of Western New York and these federal dollars will help modernize water infrastructure and prioritize clean energy initiatives. This funding will help to protect public health and the environment for many New Yorkers through the continued partnership between the Seneca Nation and the EPA.” 

Schumer has fought for years to secure more funding for tribal communities in Upstate New York. In the last set of appropriations bills, Schumer delivered over $4 billion for State and Tribal Assistance Grants, which support crucial programs like the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds, and the Brownfields program.

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