S. 347: Brownfields Reauthorization Act of 2025

This bill is known as the Brownfields Reauthorization Act of 2025 and aims to amend existing legislation concerning brownfields, which are properties where the presence of hazardous substances complicates their redevelopment. The main objectives of the bill are to increase funding for brownfields revitalization, enhance access to grant opportunities for small and disadvantaged communities, and streamline the application processes for these grants.

Key Provisions of the Bill

1. Grant Access for Disadvantaged Communities

The bill proposes to improve access for small and disadvantaged communities to grant opportunities. Changes include:

• Allowing more types of organizations to apply for grants by including certain non-profit organizational classifications.
• Reducing the mandatory matching share requirements in certain cases, particularly for projects located in small communities or disadvantaged areas.
• Encouraging projects to involve the local community effectively in decision-making processes related to brownfields.

2. Increased Funding Amounts

The bill aims to increase the maximum grant amount for each site that needs remediation from $500,000 to $1,000,000. This change is intended to help better address the significant costs associated with cleaning up contaminated properties.

3. Support for State Response Programs

Funding is also allocated for state response programs that handle brownfield sites, with specific amounts designated for fiscal years 2025 through 2030. The proposed appropriations are:

• $50 million for 2025
• $55 million for 2026
• $60 million for 2027
• $65 million for 2028
• $70 million for 2029
• $75 million for 2030

4. Streamlining Application Processes

The bill mandates a report within one year after its enactment to review and suggest improvements to the application ranking criteria and approval process for grants. This includes:

• Identifying common issues that create barriers for potential applicants.
• Recommending strategies to encourage applications from small and disadvantaged areas.
• Proposing any needed changes to existing laws to streamline these processes.

Following the report, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is required to update the application guidance to reduce complexity while maintaining competitive integrity.

5. Funding for Alaska Native Tribes

The bill specifically includes provisions to ensure that Alaska Native tribes are eligible for brownfields revitalization funding that was previously not available.

Conclusion

Overall, the Brownfields Reauthorization Act of 2025 is designed to enhance environmental cleanup efforts and support the revitalization of contaminated properties, particularly focusing on making these opportunities more accessible for those in need and increasing the financial resources available for such projects.

Relevant Companies

None found.