Emergency Assistance for Rural Water Systems Act of 2021

Eligible entity— The term eligible entity means a rural water, wastewater, or waste disposal facility with respect to which assistance may be provided under a water, wastewater, or waste disposal program under section 306(a), 306A, 306C, or 306D of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1926(a), 1926a, 1926c, 1926d).

Secretary— The term Secretary means the Secretary of Agriculture.

provide a grant, a zero percent interest loan, or a 1 percent interest loan to, forgive principal or interest or modify any term or condition of an outstanding loan made to, or refinance part or all of any other loan (if the purpose of the loan is an eligible purpose under section 306(a)(1) or 306C of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1926(a)(1), 1926c)) made to, an eligible entity; or

reduce or eliminate any fee that is or would otherwise be required to be paid under section 306(a)(1) of that Act (7 U.S.C. 1926(a)(1)) with respect to a loan guarantee provided to an eligible entity, on the condition that the eligible entity receives the benefit resulting from the reduction or elimination of the fee.

to ensure that the eligible entity has the necessary resources to maintain public health, safety, or order;

to address financial hardships of the eligible entity due to the COVID–19 public health emergency; or

to promote the financial stability of the eligible entity.

for any purpose for which the eligible entity is eligible for assistance under the relevant provision of law referred to in subsection (a)(1); or

for any direct operational expenses incurred by the eligible entity, as determined by the Secretary.