U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley are backing a new bill to permanently create the Office of Environmental Justice in the Department of Justice. This move responds to recent actions by Attorney General Pam Bondi, who has reduced efforts focused on environmental justice, following an executive order from former President Donald Trump that ended diversity initiatives in federal agencies.
Senator Wyden stated, “Attacking environmental justice means harming the millions of Americans who count on clean air and water.” He believes federal agencies must protect communities instead of weakening solutions that promote health for future generations. Wyden criticized the previous administration, saying, “They are worsening the climate crisis and putting vulnerable communities at risk.”
Senator Merkley shared similar views, stressing that everyone deserves clean air and water. He expressed concern about the increased risks for at-risk communities due to the dismantling of environmental protections. He pointed out, “The Empowering and Enforcing Environmental Justice Act aims to correct these issues by holding polluters accountable and ensuring that impacted communities have the resources they need for a healthier future.”
The legislation was introduced by Senator Alex Padilla of California. It seeks to strengthen the Department of Justice’s power to enforce environmental laws and hold polluters responsible. The bill proposes $50 million in annual grants to help state and local enforcement efforts.
Senator Wyden has long advocated for environmental justice. He previously worked on legislation to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change. His Clean Energy and Prescription Drug Pricing Legislation, part of the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022, aimed to cut emissions, help fight wildfires, and lower prescription drug costs.
The new bill also specifies the responsibilities of the Director of the Office of Environmental Justice. This includes developing a strategy for environmental justice, overseeing grant programs, promoting public involvement in decision-making, and providing training for local and state enforcement of environmental laws. Additionally, it requires the Attorney General to set up a grant program within 180 days of the Act’s passage to enhance the ability of state, local, and tribal governments in enforcing environmental laws related to justice.
Support for the bill has come from various lawmakers, including Senators Richard Blumenthal, Cory Booker, and Bernie Sanders, among others.
Source link
Environmental Justice,Legislation,Senators,Clean Air,Clean Water,Climate Crisis,Polluters,Grant Funding
