Water sector officials were disappointed the final $9.9-billion water resources package that passed the House on Dec. 7 included so little for water utilities.

A new Water Resources Development Act, or WRDA, has made headway in Congress, most recently with House passage of a bill authorizing about $9 billion for Army Corps of Engineers flood and storm protection, environmental restoration and other projects.

Next step is in the Senate, where committee-approved water infrastructure bills are waiting for a floor vote.

Bipartisan legislation also authorizes $4.4 billion for drinking water revolving funds.

After House's 408-2 vote, focus shifts to Senate, where broader bill cleared committee.

House proposal is narrower than Senate committee's version, which includes drinking-water and wastewater provisions.