Saving Hazardous And Declining Environments Act; SHADE Act
Summary
The Saving Hazardous And Declining Environments Act (SHADE Act) aims to establish a grant program, managed by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development in coordination with the Secretary of Agriculture, to plant trees in 'eligible areas'. These areas include redlined areas and intra-urban heat island effect areas. The Act authorizes appropriations of $50 million per fiscal year from 2026 through 2036 for this program.
Expected Effects
The SHADE Act will likely lead to increased tree canopy coverage in historically disadvantaged and heat-vulnerable urban areas. This could improve air quality, reduce urban heat island effects, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents. The grants prioritize projects that minimize displacement of current residents, potentially fostering community stability.
Potential Benefits
- Improved environmental conditions in redlined and heat island areas.
- Potential for increased property values in targeted communities.
- Community involvement in project planning and implementation.
- Support for local non-profits through grant opportunities.
- Job creation in tree planting and maintenance.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for unintended consequences, such as gentrification and displacement, despite the prioritization of minimizing displacement.
- The effectiveness of the program depends on the efficient allocation and management of funds by HUD and the Forest Service.
- The definition of 'qualifying tree' may limit the diversity of species planted.
- Administrative overhead may reduce the amount of funding available for actual tree planting.
- The focus on specific areas may neglect other areas in need of environmental improvement.
Constitutional Alignment
The SHADE Act aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, which allows Congress to enact laws that 'promote the general Welfare' of the United States. The Act's focus on environmental improvement and community development in disadvantaged areas can be seen as an effort to improve the well-being of citizens. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).