Us Congress House Bill HB4077

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/13/23
• Refer: 6/13/23
• Refer: 6/16/23

Caption

Cleaner Air Spaces Act of 2023

Impact

If enacted, HB 4077 is likely to significantly influence state laws related to air quality management and protection, especially regarding regulations surrounding air pollution control. The bill specifies that air pollution control agencies must establish clean air centers equipped to handle air quality issues during wildland fire events, thereby enhancing local preparedness. By mandating the distribution of air filtration units and educational resources at no cost to qualifying households, the bill aims to mitigate the negative health impacts associated with smoke inhalation, potentially reducing healthcare costs related to air quality issues.

Summary

House Bill 4077, titled the Cleaner Air Spaces Act of 2023, directs the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to provide grants to air pollution control agencies for the implementation of cleaner air space programs. The objective of the bill is to improve air quality, particularly in areas vulnerable to wildland fire smoke, by distributing eligible air filtration units to low-income households that may be at risk. The act emphasizes collaboration with community-based organizations to effectively reach and serve affected populations.

Contention

While HB 4077 enjoys support for its potential health benefits and community engagement, it may face challenges regarding fund allocation and the logistics of implementation. The bill's financial provisions allow for significant federal spending in conjunction with local execution. Critics may question whether local agencies have the capacity to effectively manage and execute such programs, especially in lower-resource settings. The emphasis on partnerships with community-based organizations could also raise concerns about the effectiveness of outreach and education regarding air quality.

Enforcement

Ultimately, the successful implementation of HB 4077 will depend on the quality of collaboration between local agencies, community organizations, and residents. The bill requires a report to Congress within three years post-enactment to assess the effectiveness of the cleaner air space programs established under its provisions. This accountability measure may serve to ensure that the objectives of improving air quality and public health are met.