American Water Works and Essential Utilities cleared a primary federal antitrust milestone on August 14, 2026. The mandatory waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino (HSR) Antitrust Improvements Act expired on that date. This development satisfies a critical condition for the proposed merger.
Shareholders from both companies have already approved the transaction. Utility commissions in Kentucky, Ohio, and Virginia also granted their approval. The companies reached a settlement in principle with regulators in Texas.
The deal remains subject to final regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. Management expects the merger to close by the end of the first quarter of 2027.