H.R.2674 - Department of Homeland Security Climate Change Research Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2674, the Department of Homeland Security Climate Change Research Act, directs the Under Secretary for Science and Technology at DHS to research and develop approaches to mitigate the negative effects of climate change on homeland security. This includes evaluating existing federal research and conducting new research, subject to appropriations. The bill also mandates regular reports to Congress on these activities.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to increased research and development efforts within the Department of Homeland Security focused on climate change adaptation and mitigation. This could result in new strategies and technologies to protect critical infrastructure and respond to climate-related disasters. The reports to Congress will also increase oversight and accountability.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced preparedness for climate-related disasters, potentially saving lives and reducing property damage.
- Improved protection of critical infrastructure from climate change impacts.
- Development of new technologies and strategies for climate change adaptation.
- Increased coordination between federal, state, local, and tribal governments on climate change issues.
- Greater awareness and understanding of the risks posed by climate change to homeland security.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government spending on climate change research.
- Possible duplication of efforts with other federal agencies already involved in climate research.
- Risk that research findings may be ignored or politicized.
- Uncertainty about the effectiveness of the proposed research and development activities.
- Potential for the definition of 'climate change' to be interpreted in a way that limits the scope of research.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause (Preamble) which allows Congress to provide for the well-being of the nation. It also falls under Congress's power to provide for the common defense (Preamble and Article I, Section 8) by addressing climate change impacts on national security. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific individual liberties or rights outlined in the Bill of Rights.
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).