S.325 - Coordinated Federal Response to Extreme Heat Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.325, the Coordinated Federal Response to Extreme Heat Act of 2025, aims to reduce health risks associated with extreme heat by establishing the National Integrated Heat Health Information System (NIHHIS) within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). It also creates the NIHHIS Interagency Committee to improve preparedness, planning, and response to extreme heat events. The bill defines key terms like 'extreme heat,' 'heat event,' and 'heat-health' to provide a clear framework for addressing heat-related issues.
The Interagency Committee will coordinate federal agency efforts to ensure a unified approach to mitigating health risks from heat. This includes developing a strategic plan, coordinating communication and research, and building partnerships with various entities. The NIHHIS will focus on improving data delivery, developing science-based solutions, and supporting research on heat health.
Finally, the bill authorizes appropriations of $5,000,000 annually from 2025 through 2029 for NOAA to carry out the provisions of the Act, including administrative costs for the Committee and the System.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to better coordination among federal agencies in addressing extreme heat events and their health impacts. The establishment of NIHHIS should improve the availability of data and information related to heat and its effects. This will inform better decision-making and resource allocation at the federal, state, and local levels.
Furthermore, the strategic plan developed by the Interagency Committee will provide a roadmap for addressing heat-related risks. This includes improving data collection, fostering innovative solutions, and financing heat planning and preparedness. The authorized appropriations will provide the necessary funding to support these activities.
Ultimately, the Act aims to reduce heat-related illnesses and mortalities by enhancing preparedness, planning, and response efforts. This will be achieved through improved data, coordinated action, and strategic planning.
Potential Benefits
- Improved coordination among federal agencies in addressing extreme heat events.
- Enhanced data collection and information dissemination related to heat-health impacts.
- Development of science-based solutions and tools for impact-based decision support.
- Increased capacity and partnerships with federal and non-federal entities.
- Strategic plan outlining goals and projects for improving interagency coordination and integration.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for bureaucratic inefficiencies due to the creation of a new interagency committee.
- Risk of duplication of efforts among different agencies.
- Limited funding may not be sufficient to address all aspects of heat-related health risks.
- Dependence on the effectiveness of the strategic plan and its implementation.
- Possible challenges in coordinating with regional, state, tribal, and local governments.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it aims to promote the health and well-being of the population by addressing the risks associated with extreme heat. The establishment of NIHHIS within NOAA falls under the Commerce Clause, as it involves the regulation and improvement of data and information related to weather and climate, which can affect interstate commerce. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual liberties or rights protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
Furthermore, the Act respects the principles of federalism by consulting with regional, state, tribal, and local governments in carrying out its responsibilities. This ensures that the unique needs and circumstances of different communities are taken into account. The Act also promotes transparency and accountability by requiring the Committee to submit a strategic plan to Congress and make it available on a public website.
Overall, the Act seems to be a reasonable exercise of Congressional power to address a growing public health concern, and it does not appear to violate any constitutional principles.
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).