Bill 118 s 2959, also known as the Brownfields Reauthorization Act of 2023, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The bill aims to reauthorize and strengthen the Brownfields Program, which was originally established in 2002 to help communities clean up and redevelop contaminated properties.
The Brownfields Program provides grants and technical assistance to states, tribes, local governments, and non-profit organizations to assess and clean up brownfield sites, which are abandoned or underutilized properties where redevelopment is hindered by the presence of hazardous substances. By revitalizing these properties, the program aims to promote economic development, create jobs, and improve the environment.
If passed, Bill 118 s 2959 would reauthorize the Brownfields Program for an additional five years and increase funding for grants and technical assistance. The bill also includes provisions to streamline the application process for grants, improve coordination between federal agencies, and prioritize projects in underserved and economically disadvantaged communities.
Overall, the Brownfields Reauthorization Act of 2023 seeks to continue the successful work of the Brownfields Program in revitalizing communities across the country while also making improvements to ensure its continued effectiveness in the future.