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Climate Change Relief for Urban Areas Act of 2023
12/27/2023, 9:30 PM
Summary of Bill HR 2786
One key aspect of the bill is the allocation of funding for infrastructure projects that will help urban areas adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change. This includes funding for projects such as improving stormwater management systems, increasing green spaces, and implementing renewable energy initiatives.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions for research and data collection on the specific challenges faced by urban areas in relation to climate change. This information will be used to inform future policy decisions and ensure that resources are allocated effectively. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of community engagement and collaboration in addressing climate change in urban areas. It encourages partnerships between local governments, community organizations, and businesses to work together towards sustainable solutions. Overall, the Climate Change Relief for Urban Areas Act of 2023 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that seeks to support and protect urban areas from the impacts of climate change. By investing in infrastructure, research, and community partnerships, the bill aims to create a more resilient and sustainable future for cities across the country.
Congressional Summary of HR 2786
Climate Change Relief for Urban Areas Act of 2023
This bill revises support for urban and community forestry and establishes a program to support rooftop gardens for public elementary and secondary schools.
First, the bill revises provisions under the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 that provide assistance for urban and community forestry. Assistance must be prioritized for areas with low tree equity scores which indicate whether there are enough trees in a neighborhood and are based on how the tree canopy and surface temperature of an area align with income, employment, race, age, and health factors of that area.
Second, the bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish a program that awards grants for rooftop gardens on public elementary and secondary schools. In awarding grants, USDA must prioritize schools in areas with the lowest garden equity scores. The scores must be based on the population density, racial composition, incidence of respiratory illness, number of urban gardens, food sovereignty, and average surface temperature of the areas.
