S.347 - Brownfields Reauthorization Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Brownfields Reauthorization Act of 2025 (S.347) amends the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) to reauthorize brownfields revitalization funding. The bill aims to improve access to grant opportunities for small and disadvantaged communities, increase grant amounts, and streamline the application process. It also includes provisions for state response programs and funding for Alaska Native tribes.
Expected Effects
The act will likely lead to increased investment in brownfield remediation, particularly in underserved communities. This could result in the cleanup and redevelopment of contaminated sites, boosting local economies and improving environmental quality. The changes to grant application processes may also encourage more participation from smaller communities.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Funding: Provides increased funding for brownfield revitalization through 2030.
- Improved Access for Disadvantaged Communities: Lowers the matching share requirement for eligible entities in small communities or disadvantaged areas.
- Streamlined Application Process: Mandates a report and updated guidance to streamline the grant application process.
- Increased Grant Amounts: Increases the maximum grant amount per site to be remediated to $1,000,000.
- Inclusion of Alaska Native Tribes: Expands eligibility to include Regional Corporations and Village Corporations in Alaska.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Inefficient Spending: Increased funding without sufficient oversight could lead to inefficient use of resources.
- Delayed Implementation: The requirement for a report and updated guidance could delay the implementation of the act's provisions.
- Uncertainty in Long-Term Funding: Future funding is subject to appropriations, which could vary depending on political priorities.
- Complexity of Regulations: Navigating the application process, even with streamlined guidance, may still be challenging for some communities.
- Limited Scope: The act focuses primarily on funding and procedural improvements, potentially overlooking other important aspects of brownfield redevelopment.
Constitutional Alignment
The Brownfields Reauthorization Act aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the U.S. Constitution (Preamble), as it aims to promote the well-being of communities by revitalizing contaminated sites. Congress's authority to enact this legislation stems from its power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8), as environmental contamination can affect commerce across state lines. The Act 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).