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TFG Partner, Charmayne Anderson, Announced 2022 Top Lobbyist

The National Institute for Lobbying and Ethics recognized Charmayne Anderson as a Top Lobbyist on its annual list.

15 November 2022
Author: Alex Yiannoutsos
Number of views: 1285
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WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, The National Institute of Lobbying and Ethics (NILE) recogonized Charmayne Anderson, TFG Partner, as one of its 2022 Top Lobbyists. Charmayne’s deep-rooted expertise built over nearly three decades with TFG combined with her inventive lobbying approaches stood out – garnering impressive successes in: public infrastructure, water resource development legislation; federal appropriations and grants to assist first responder operations; and increased affordable housing options, among other things.

Participants at the New York State Bar Association Conference received insights into available federal funds.

21 October 2022
Author: Alex Yiannoutsos
Number of views: 11366
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Jennifer Imo Presents Infrastructure Programs for Local Governments at NYSBA Conference

Last week, Jennifer Imo, TFG Managing Partner of Client Services and Irma Esparza Diggs, Senior Executive and Director, Federal Advocacy at the National League of Cities, held a “Federal Funding for Local Governments” presentation at the New York State Bar Association’s “Local & State Government Law Section” Conference held in Washington, DC.

TFG appropriations veterans will provide local government leaders key information to help secure federal earmarked funding.

19 September 2022
Author: Alex Yiannoutsos
Number of views: 9167
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Today, TFG federal funding experts will present “Earmark Debrief: Lessons Learned and Tips for Success” at the 2022 Annual International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Conference.

Kristen H. Long will give participants a jumpstart on securing funding for Brownfields projects their communities.

17 August 2022
Author: Alex Yiannoutsos
Number of views: 8436
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TFG Grants Expert to Hold “Brownfields 101” Webinar

Next week, The Ferguson Group (TFG) Grants Analyst and Brownfields expert, Kristen H. Long, will hold “Brownfields 101” webinar.

12 July 2022
Author: Alex Yiannoutsos
Number of views: 0
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I'm excited to introduce TFG's Letter from the CEO where I will provide regular updates so you can get to know us better, see where our clients are achieving significant wins in their communities, and learn more about what we do. This first edition highlights the firm's greatest asset—our staff!

July 2022 marks our 40th anniversary! Since 1982, we've seen communities we work with remarkably advance. I'm proud to see our team expand and am eager to show you what's in store for TFG and our clients going forward. Thank you for an incredible forty years!

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Overview

Water Resources Development Act (WRDA)

The Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) serves as the primary vehicle through which Congress authorizes U.S. Army Corps of Engineers civil works projects and establishes policy frameworks for water resource development nationwide. Enacted on a biennial schedule, WRDAs provide congressional authorization for USACE to conduct feasibility studies, construct flood risk reduction projects, improve navigation infrastructure, restore aquatic ecosystems, and assist with environmental infrastructure development.

Since the enactment of WRDA 1986, Congress has used these omnibus authorization bills to both create new USACE authorities and refine existing programs based on evolving national priorities and lessons learned from program implementation. Recent WRDAs have addressed critical issues including drought resilience, water supply development, infrastructure modernization, and support for economically disadvantaged communities.

The most recent legislation, the Water Resources Development Act of 2024 (WRDA 2024, P.L. 118-272), continued Congress's bipartisan commitment to strengthening America's water infrastructure by authorizing new construction projects, modifying existing authorities, and establishing updated policy guidance for USACE operations. WRDA 2024 also authorized five new regional environmental infrastructure programs, each incorporating flexible delivery mechanisms that allow federal assistance to be provided through grants or reimbursements to nonfederal sponsors.

Authorization through WRDA is typically a prerequisite for USACE activities to receive federal appropriations through the annual Energy and Water Development appropriations process. This two-step framework—authorization followed by appropriation—ensures congressional oversight of both program scope and funding levels.

Section 219 Environmental Infrastructure

Section 219 of WRDA 1992, as amended, represents one of USACE's most geographically expansive environmental infrastructure assistance authorities. Originally enacted to authorize design assistance for 18 specific projects, Section 219 has been amended by subsequent Congresses to authorize both design and construction assistance for water-related environmental infrastructure in hundreds of municipalities, counties, and states across the nation.

The Congressional Research Service has identified over 600 environmental infrastructure assistance authorities with cumulative authorizations of appropriations totaling approximately $18.1 billion. Section 219 authorities constitute the majority of these geographically specific project authorizations, covering at least 46 states, the District of Columbia, and four U.S. territories.

Section 219 projects address critical community needs including wastewater treatment facilities, water supply and distribution systems, stormwater management infrastructure, surface water protection, and environmental restoration. These projects support public health, environmental quality, and economic development in communities that have secured congressional authorization for USACE assistance.

Congress has continued to expand Section 219 in recent legislation. WRDA 2022 added 132 new Section 219 authorities and amended 24 existing authorities. WRDA 2024 authorized an additional 193 new Section 219 authorities and amended 53 existing authorities, providing a combined $5.4 billion increase in authorization of appropriations. WRDA 2024 also established a seven-year pilot program to increase the federal cost share from 75 percent to 90 percent for Section 219 projects benefiting economically disadvantaged communities.

Unlike traditional USACE water resource projects, Section 219 assistance does not require completion of the agency's standard feasibility study process. However, projects receiving Section 219 assistance must comply with applicable federal environmental laws, including the National Environmental Policy Act.

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US Congressional Calendar

9 December 2024

TFG Presents 2025 Congressional Calendar

The Ferguson Group (TFG) compiled a 2025 Congressional Calendar with session and recess dates for the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate 119th congressional session.