Indoor Air Quality and Healthy Schools Act of 2025
Summary
The Indoor Air Quality and Healthy Schools Act of 2025 aims to establish a national program focused on reducing health risks associated with indoor air contaminants. It directs the EPA Administrator to support the assessment, reduction, and avoidance of exposure to these contaminants through various measures. These measures include research, guideline development, training, and financial assistance to state, local, and tribal governments.
The Act also mandates the creation of a list of indoor contaminants of concern and the publication of science-based, voluntary guidelines for each. Furthermore, it calls for a national assessment of indoor air quality in schools and childcare facilities, along with the development of healthy building certification programs.
Finally, the Act authorizes appropriations of $100 million annually from 2026 to 2030 to carry out its provisions, excluding the indoor air quality index study.
Expected Effects
This Act is likely to improve indoor air quality in schools, childcare facilities, and other buildings. This will be achieved through enhanced monitoring, source control, ventilation, and filtration practices.
It will also lead to the development and adoption of standardized methods and technologies for assessing and controlling indoor air contaminants. The Act may also spur innovation in building design and management practices to improve air quality and resilience against climate change impacts.
Potential Benefits
- Improved public health, particularly for children and other vulnerable populations, through reduced exposure to indoor air contaminants.
- Enhanced educational environments in schools and childcare facilities, leading to better learning outcomes.
- Increased awareness and knowledge among the public regarding indoor air quality and effective mitigation measures.
- Support for state, local, and tribal governments in developing and implementing indoor air quality management strategies.
- Potential for economic benefits through the development and adoption of new technologies and practices for improving indoor air quality.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with implementing the Act's provisions, including the development of guidelines, assessments, and certification programs.
- Possible regulatory burdens on building owners and operators to comply with new standards and guidelines.
- Risk of delays or challenges in establishing the initial list of indoor contaminants of concern and publishing the corresponding guidelines.
- Uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of voluntary certifications and model provisions in achieving significant improvements in indoor air quality.
- Potential for increased costs for building construction and renovation to meet the new standards.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble), which empowers Congress to promote the well-being of the population. It also falls under Congress's authority to regulate activities that affect commerce, as indoor air quality can impact productivity and economic activity.
While the Act does not directly implicate individual rights or state powers, its implementation must be consistent with the principles of federalism and avoid infringing upon areas traditionally reserved for the states. The Act's reliance on voluntary guidelines and technical assistance minimizes potential constitutional concerns related to federal overreach.
No specific constitutional conflicts are apparent, assuming the Act is implemented in a manner that respects state authority and individual liberties.
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).