EPA issues first EJ grants in race against potential Trump win

By Jean Chemnick | 07/25/2024 06:28 AM EDT

The agency funded 21 projects in low-income areas as it launched the nation’s largest-ever spending program on environmental justice.

EPA Administrator Michael Regan speaks during an event in Washington.

EPA Administrator Michael Regan speaking during an event April 25 in Washington. Kevin Wolf/AP

EPA announced hundreds of millions of dollars in grants Thursday to help disadvantaged communities improve climate resilience and cut pollution.

The $325 million will support 21 projects for things such as urban forestry, weatherization of buildings, and training programs for electric vehicle technicians and welders.

They are the first recipients under the Inflation Reduction Act’s $2 billion Community Change Grant Program, which EPA Administrator Michael Regan told reporters would be “the single-largest investment in environmental justice ever.”

Advertisement

“This is a historic opportunity to change how government operates and who it serves,” he said.

GET FULL ACCESS