The Environmental Protection Agency has released an "inaugural" list of programs covered under the Justice40 Initiative, including numerous agricultural and renewable energy programs.
The Biden Administration’s Justice40 Initiative was created in January 2021, with Biden's signing of an executive order on climate change. The initiative “mandates at least 40 percent of the benefits of certain federal programs must flow to disadvantaged communities," EPA said.
EPA’s Justice40 Initiative includes grant programs covering pesticide use and human health risks and nonpoint source pollution, as well as the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) rebate program.
The latest announcement follows EPA's identification of six programs that are part of a pilot program that began in July 2021. Those programs include the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund and the Clean Water State Revolving Fund, as well as programs addressing lead in drinking water, Superfund and brownfields sites, and diesel emission reductions.
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The National Association of Conservation Districts released a statement applauding the EPA and their commitment to water quality. NACD CEO Jeremy Peters said, “NACD is pleased to see EPA considering the needs of disadvantaged communities when administering these programs. It is critical that water quality continues to be addressed to support communities across the country through cooperation with local stakeholders such as conservation districts.”
The list joined the 65 covered programs in the Department of Agriculture, along with Justice40 Initiative programs in the departments of Interior and Health and Human Services.
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