Open Back Better Act of 2021

Open Back Better Act of 2021

This bill directs the Department of Energy (DOE) to provide grants to federal and state agencies and tribal organizations to implement building projects that increase resiliency, energy efficiency, renewable energy, and grid integration. It also provides grants for projects that may have combined heat and power and energy storage as project components.

States must use at least 40% of grant funds to implement projects in environmental justice communities or low-income communities that have been adversely impacted by the COVID-19 (i.e., coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic.

The Open Back Better Act of 2021, also known as Bill 117 hr 1485, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress with the goal of promoting economic recovery and job creation in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill focuses on investing in infrastructure, clean energy, and workforce development to help rebuild the economy and create new opportunities for American workers.

One of the key provisions of the Open Back Better Act is the allocation of funding for infrastructure projects, such as repairing roads and bridges, expanding public transportation, and modernizing the electric grid. These investments are intended to create jobs in construction and related industries, while also improving the country's overall infrastructure and promoting economic growth.

In addition to infrastructure investments, the bill also includes measures to promote clean energy and combat climate change. This includes funding for renewable energy projects, energy efficiency upgrades, and research and development in clean energy technologies. By investing in clean energy, the bill aims to create new jobs in the growing green economy and reduce the country's carbon emissions. The Open Back Better Act also includes provisions to support workforce development and job training programs. This includes funding for apprenticeships, job training programs, and education initiatives to help workers gain the skills they need to succeed in the changing economy. By investing in workforce development, the bill aims to ensure that American workers are prepared for the jobs of the future and can compete in the global marketplace. Overall, the Open Back Better Act of 2021 is a comprehensive piece of legislation aimed at promoting economic recovery and job creation in the United States. By investing in infrastructure, clean energy, and workforce development, the bill seeks to rebuild the economy and create new opportunities for American workers in the post-pandemic world.