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Empowering and Enforcing Environmental Justice Act of 2025

3/21/2025, 1:57 PM

Summary of Bill S 720

Bill 119 s 720, also known as the Environmental Justice Act of 2021, aims to create an Office of Environmental Justice within the Department of Justice. This office would be responsible for addressing environmental justice issues, which are concerns about the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people in environmental decision-making.

The bill outlines the duties of the Office of Environmental Justice, which include investigating complaints related to environmental justice, providing legal assistance to communities facing environmental injustices, and coordinating with other federal agencies to ensure that environmental laws are enforced fairly and equitably.

Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Justice to develop a strategic plan for addressing environmental justice issues and to report annually to Congress on its progress. It also establishes a grant program to support community-based organizations working on environmental justice issues. Overall, Bill 119 s 720 seeks to ensure that all communities, regardless of race, income, or location, have equal access to a clean and healthy environment. It aims to address the disproportionate burden of pollution and environmental hazards that marginalized communities often face, and to promote environmental justice for all Americans.

Current Status of Bill S 720

Bill S 720 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since February 25, 2025. Bill S 720 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the Senate on February 25, 2025.  Bill S 720's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. (Sponsor introductory remarks on measure: CR S1350) as of February 25, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 720

Total Number of Sponsors
5
Democrat Sponsors
5
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
21
Democrat Cosponsors
19
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
2

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 720

Primary Policy Focus

Law

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 720

A bill to establish an Office of Environmental Justice within the Department of Justice, and for other purposes.
A bill to establish an Office of Environmental Justice within the Department of Justice, and for other purposes.

Comments

Valentino Fuller profile image

Valentino Fuller

487

9 months ago

I fully support the establishment of an Office of Environmental Justice within the Department of Justice. This bill will help ensure that all communities, regardless of race or income, have equal access to clean air, water, and a healthy environment. As a resident of Wyoming, where environmental issues are a major concern, I believe this office will play a crucial role in addressing environmental injustices and protecting the well-being of all Americans. #EnvironmentalJustice #UnitedStatesSBill720

Lennon Schroeder profile image

Lennon Schroeder

483

9 months ago

Why do we need this? What about the costs?