Preventing Health Emergencies And Temperature-related Illness and Deaths Act of 2025; Preventing HEAT Illness and Deaths Act of 2025
Summary
The Preventing Health Emergencies And Temperature-related Illness and Deaths Act of 2025, also known as the Preventing HEAT Illness and Deaths Act of 2025, aims to reduce health risks associated with extreme heat. It establishes the National Integrated Heat Health Information System (NIHHIS) within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The bill also creates an interagency committee to improve preparedness, planning, and response to extreme heat events, requiring a study on extreme heat information and response, and establishing financial assistance programs to address heat effects.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to improved data collection and sharing related to heat-related illnesses and deaths. It will also foster better coordination among federal agencies in addressing heat-related health risks. Furthermore, the Act could result in increased funding for community-based projects aimed at mitigating the impacts of extreme heat, especially in vulnerable communities.
Potential Benefits
- Improved preparedness and response to extreme heat events.
- Enhanced data collection and sharing on heat-related illnesses.
- Targeted support for vulnerable communities, including low-income areas and communities of color.
- Increased research and understanding of the health impacts of extreme heat.
- Development of sustainable heat reduction and mitigation solutions.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for bureaucratic inefficiencies in coordinating multiple federal agencies.
- The financial assistance programs may not be distributed equitably or effectively.
- The study on extreme heat information and response may take a long time to complete, delaying action.
- The focus on extreme heat may divert resources from other important public health issues.
- The act relies on future appropriations, which may not be guaranteed.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). It also falls under Congress's power to regulate commerce (Article I, Section 8) due to the interstate impacts of extreme weather events and the need for a coordinated national response. The establishment of NIHHIS and the interagency committee are within the scope of Congress's legislative authority.
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).