H.R.566 - Cleaner Air Spaces Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.566, the Cleaner Air Spaces Act of 2025, directs the EPA Administrator to provide grants to air pollution control agencies for implementing cleaner air space programs. These programs aim to mitigate the impact of wildland fire smoke events on vulnerable populations. The bill authorizes $30 million in appropriations for fiscal years 2026-2028, with a maximum grant amount of $3 million per agency.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to the establishment of clean air centers and the distribution of air filtration units in areas prone to wildland fire smoke. This will improve indoor air quality and reduce health risks for individuals in covered households. The EPA will also be required to report to Congress on the program's effectiveness and make recommendations for improvement and expansion.
Potential Benefits
- Improved air quality in areas affected by wildland fire smoke.
- Reduced health risks for vulnerable populations, including those with underlying health conditions, disabilities, or age-related vulnerabilities.
- Establishment of clean air centers providing safe spaces during smoke events.
- Distribution of air filtration units to low-income households.
- Increased public awareness regarding air quality and mitigation strategies.
Potential Disadvantages
- Limited funding may restrict the scope and reach of the program.
- Administrative costs could reduce the amount of funding available for direct implementation.
- The program's effectiveness depends on the ability of air pollution control agencies to effectively partner with community-based organizations.
- Potential for delays in implementation due to bureaucratic processes.
- The program focuses solely on wildland fire smoke, neglecting other sources of air pollution.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). It also falls under Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8), as air pollution can cross state lines. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, but environmental regulation has been historically an area of federal and state cooperation. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional 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).