Privatization, poverty threaten water affordability | Cornell Chronicle

The article discusses the increasing water affordability problem in the United States, especially for low-income communities and communities of color. With many aging urban water systems needing expensive upgrades and private ownership contributing significantly to higher water bills, water costs pose a challenge for low-income households. The study found that private ownership had the largest impact on annual water bills, with an average increase of $144 compared to public sector systems. The researchers recommend prioritizing affordability programs to assist the neediest customers and implementing effective water affordability programs to ensure long-term affordability and prevent water shut-offs.