H.R.3703 - Excess Urban Heat Mitigation Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3703, the Excess Urban Heat Mitigation Act of 2025, aims to address the problem of rising temperatures in urban areas by establishing a grant program within the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The bill directs the Secretary of HUD to coordinate with other federal agencies to award grants to eligible entities for projects designed to mitigate or manage heat in urban areas, particularly in underserved communities. It authorizes appropriations of $30 million per year from 2026 through 2033 to fund the grant program.
Expected Effects
The Act would likely lead to a reduction in urban heat island effects in targeted communities through various mitigation strategies. This includes increased tree cover, cool pavements and roofs, and cooling centers. The Act also prioritizes projects in low-income census tracts and communities with lower tree canopy and higher summer temperatures, potentially improving environmental justice.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced heat-related illnesses and deaths, particularly in vulnerable populations.
- Improved air and water quality due to reduced energy consumption and emissions.
- Creation of green jobs in urban forestry, construction, and maintenance.
- Enhanced community resilience to extreme weather events.
- Increased property values and improved quality of life in targeted areas.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for bureaucratic delays in establishing and administering the grant program.
- Risk of funds being mismanaged or directed to less effective projects.
- Possible unintended consequences of certain mitigation strategies, such as increased water usage for tree planting.
- The limited funding may not be sufficient to address the widespread problem of urban heat islands.
- Potential for increased local taxes or fees to cover the matching requirement for eligible projects.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). It promotes the health and well-being of citizens by addressing environmental and public health concerns related to urban heat. The Act's focus on grant programs falls under Congress's power to appropriate funds for specific purposes, as outlined in Article I, Section 8, Clause 1.
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).