H.R. 1553: Empowering and Enforcing Environmental Justice Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Empowering and Enforcing Environmental Justice Act of 2025, aims to establish an Office of Environmental Justice within the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to promote and protect environmental justice across the country. The key provisions of the bill include:

Establishment of the Office of Environmental Justice

The bill creates an Office of Environmental Justice that is part of the Environment and Natural Resources Division of the DOJ. This office will be responsible for developing an environmental justice strategy and coordinating matters related to environmental justice within the DOJ.

Duties of the Office

The Office will:

• Develop and regularly update a strategy for federal actions addressing environmental justice.
• Coordinate environmental justice matters across DOJ and ensure outreach to affected communities.
• Administer a grant program aimed at enhancing states' and localities' capacity to enforce environmental laws.
• Ensure the public can meaningfully participate in decisions affecting their environment and health.
• Provide guidance and support to state, local, and tribal governments on environmental justice issues.
• Conduct training programs related to environmental enforcement and legal education regarding environmental justice.

Senior Advisory Council

The creation of a Senior Advisory Council is mandated to assist with advising the DOJ on environmental justice issues. The Council will include representatives from various DOJ components and will oversee the implementation of the environmental justice strategy.

Environmental Justice Matters Definition

The bill defines "environmental justice" as the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all individuals, particularly those from low-income and minority communities, in federal decisions affecting human health and the environment. It emphasizes protection from adverse effects of environmental hazards and equitable access to a healthy environment.

Grant Program for Environmental Justice Enforcement

The bill establishes a grant program designed to support state, local, and tribal governments in enhancing their capabilities to handle environmental justice matters. Key points regarding the grants include:

• Grants can be awarded for training, hiring enforcement staff, and community outreach efforts.
• Each eligible recipient can receive only one grant under this program.
• Grant amounts range from $50,000 to $1,000,000, with the federal share not exceeding 80% of the project cost.

Reporting and Oversight

The Attorney General will be responsible for reporting to congressional committees on the implementation and progress of the bill's provisions, including the grant program.

Funding Authorization

The bill authorizes appropriations of $50 million annually from 2026 to 2035 to support the initiatives outlined in the legislation.

Relevant Companies

• DOW - As a chemical company, DOW may face increased scrutiny for its environmental impact and could be required to enhance its compliance with environmental standards.
• XOM - ExxonMobil, as an oil and gas company, might be significantly impacted through potential enforcement actions or requirements for community engagement regarding environmental justice matters.
• CVX - Chevron may encounter similar impacts related to its environmental practices and the need to address community health risks associated with its operations.