A federal judge has ordered the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to lift a freeze on funding for several programs supported by the bipartisan infrastructure law and the Inflation Reduction Act. However, many climate-related funds are still on hold.
James Bikales and Zack Colman report for POLITICO.
The key updates are:
- The EPA has instructed officials to start releasing funds for programs like State and Tribal Assistance Grants, brownfield cleanups, and Superfund projects.
- This funding freeze, which began during the Trump administration, had hindered states and nonprofits from obtaining funds for various climate and energy initiatives.
- A recent court ruling stopped the enforcement of this freeze, but crucial funds, such as the $7 billion Solar for All program and a $5 billion grant program for reducing climate pollution, are still not available.
Sam Ricketts, co-founder of S2 Strategies, expressed frustration, saying, “They are flagrantly disregarding the law. It is outrageous.”
Understanding the importance of this news is vital. Federal funding is essential for states to combat pollution, clean up hazardous waste sites, and shift toward greener energy sources. Programs like Superfund cleanups and grants for renewable energy are critical for fostering environmental progress. If funding is delayed due to bureaucracy, changing political landscapes, or legal obstacles, it can significantly slow down efforts to improve climate resilience and rectify past environmental injustices.
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climate change, environmental health, pfas, toxics
