H.R.3702 - Extreme Heat Economic Study Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3702, the Extreme Heat Economic Study Act of 2025, directs the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere to conduct an economic impact study on the financial costs of extreme heat. The study will quantify the dollar value of loss of life and property due to extreme heat, and evaluate health impacts and property damage. It also mandates feedback from various federal and non-federal entities.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would lead to a comprehensive report on the economic consequences of extreme heat, including impacts on health, infrastructure, and labor productivity. This report would inform policy decisions and resource allocation related to climate change adaptation and public health preparedness. The study aims to create a national system for tracking heat-related costs and improving heat death reporting accuracy.
Potential Benefits
- Provides data to inform policy and resource allocation related to extreme heat events.
- Quantifies the economic impact of extreme heat, including health costs and property damage.
- Improves accuracy of heat death reporting and tracking of heat-related costs.
- Enhances public awareness and preparedness for extreme heat events.
- Supports development of strategies to mitigate the economic and health impacts of extreme heat.
Potential Disadvantages
- The study's findings might be used to justify increased regulation or taxation.
- The $3.5 million appropriation could be considered a misallocation of resources by some.
- The study's conclusions could be influenced by political agendas.
- The study may not accurately capture all the nuances of the economic impact of extreme heat.
- The study's recommendations may be difficult or costly to implement.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to address a public health and economic issue affecting many Americans. Specifically, the preamble states the goal to "promote the general Welfare". The study itself does not infringe upon any specific rights enumerated in the Constitution or its amendments. The allocation of funds is a power granted to Congress.
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).