Climate Health Emergency Act of 2025
Summary
The Climate Health Emergency Act of 2025 directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to declare a public health emergency due to health risks associated with climate change. It cites the increasing frequency of climate-related health emergencies and the inadequacy of current public health infrastructure. The bill aims to mobilize federal resources and improve inter-agency coordination to address these crises.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the Secretary of HHS would be mandated to declare a public health emergency, unlocking specific emergency powers and funding. This could lead to increased federal involvement in climate-related health issues. It may also lead to increased funding for research and public health initiatives related to climate change.
Potential Benefits
- Increased federal funding for climate-related health research and initiatives.
- Enhanced coordination among federal agencies to address climate-related health risks.
- Improved public health infrastructure to handle climate-driven health crises.
- Mobilization of resources to protect vulnerable communities from climate change impacts.
- Greater awareness and focus on the health consequences of climate change.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for overreach by the federal government in public health matters.
- Possible economic strain due to increased spending on climate-related health initiatives.
- Risk of diverting resources from other important public health priorities.
- Concerns about the scope and duration of the declared public health emergency.
- Potential for political disagreements over the definition and management of climate-related health risks.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is rooted in the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce, and the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8), allowing Congress to provide for the general welfare of the United States. The declaration of a public health emergency falls under the purview of the federal government's responsibility to protect public health, though the extent of this power is subject to interpretation and potential challenges under the Tenth Amendment regarding states' rights.
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).