15 November 2022

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.

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. Importantly, she also invests in her community with non-profit work as well as advocacy on behalf of children in the areas of adoption, child abuse and neglect prevention, and youth in foster care. Additionally, Charmayne participates in charitable events as a member of the Washington Football Team Cheerleader Alumni.

“It’s an honor to be recognized as a 2022 Top Lobbyist,” said Charmayne. “I’m grateful for the lasting relationships I’ve built with my clients over the last 29 years and for the opportunity to have a positive impact on the health and well-being of individuals and communities I work with.”

Every year, the NILE handpicks 100 designees who “showed significant 2022 success, took an innovative approach to their field, and demonstrated commitment to giving back to their community, as well as adherence to the highest ethical standards.” The nominees are assessed blindly and based on merit during a months-long nomination process. NILE recognized Charmayne as a 2022 Top Lobbyist for a small firm.

View the 2022 Top Lobbyists.

Documents to download

Press Release - 2 CA 2022 Top Lobbyist - 11.15.22(.pdf, 166.9 KB) - 561 download(s)

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.