H.R.2995 - Protection from Cumulative Emissions and Underenforcement of Environmental Law Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 2995, the Protection from Cumulative Emissions and Underenforcement of Environmental Law Act of 2025, aims to advance environmental justice by addressing cumulative environmental impacts and underenforcement of environmental laws. The bill mandates the EPA Administrator to develop and implement a protocol for assessing cumulative public health risks associated with environmental stressors. It also requires the identification and remediation of environmental justice communities overburdened by environmental violations.
Expected Effects
The bill would likely lead to increased scrutiny of environmental impacts in vulnerable communities and potentially stricter enforcement of environmental regulations. This could result in improved public health outcomes and reduced environmental burdens in those communities. The EPA would be required to take specific actions to address environmental violations in identified communities.
Potential Benefits
- Improved public health in environmental justice communities.
- Reduced exposure to pollutants and environmental stressors.
- Increased accountability for environmental violations.
- Enhanced community engagement in environmental decision-making.
- Prioritization of resources for overburdened communities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased regulatory burden on businesses.
- Possible delays in project approvals due to cumulative impact assessments.
- Risk of litigation related to the implementation of the protocol.
- Costs associated with the EPA's implementation of the bill's mandates.
- Potential for unintended consequences due to overly broad definitions of environmental justice communities.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it seeks to promote the health and well-being of communities disproportionately affected by environmental hazards. Congress has the power to enact laws necessary and proper for carrying into execution the powers vested by the Constitution in the government of the United States, including environmental regulation. The bill 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).