Us Congress Senate Bill SB2045

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/20/23
• Refer: 6/20/23

Caption

Technology Assessment for Air Quality Management Act of 2023

Impact

This bill would direct the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish a working group dedicated to advancing air quality monitoring technologies. It mandates the compilation of an inventory of the national air quality monitoring infrastructure and the creation of a comprehensive report analyzing this data. The implications of the bill are substantial, as it could lead to more localized than ever before data on air quality, thereby facilitating effective decision-making processes at state and local levels regarding pollution mitigation and public health interventions. Additionally, the bill acknowledges the disproportionate impacts of air pollution on communities of color and low-income populations.

Summary

SB2045, titled the Technology Assessment for Air Quality Management Act of 2023, seeks to enhance air quality management and community safety by implementing advanced monitoring technologies and improved data collection methodologies. The bill emphasizes the importance of accurate and comprehensive air quality data, as multiple studies have indicated that a significant portion of the U.S. population lives in areas with unhealthily high levels of air pollution, particularly affecting marginalized communities. By harnessing modern sensor technologies, the legislation aims to provide localized data to better identify and address pollution sources.

Contention

Some notable points of contention surrounding SB2045 revolve around the balance of technological advancement with community needs. Critics express concerns that while increased monitoring technologies are essential, they must be accompanied by actionable responses to data outputs. There is also apprehension regarding the adequacy of funding for the implementation of new monitoring systems and staff training to ensure the data generated leads to meaningful environmental justice improvements rather than mere data collection efforts.