H.R. 6432: Brownfields Reauthorization Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Brownfields Reauthorization Act of 2025, aims to amend the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (commonly referred to as CERCLA) to support the revitalization of brownfield sites, which are properties that may be contaminated and require cleanup before they can be reused or redeveloped.

Key Provisions

• Increased Funding for Site Remediation: The bill proposes to increase the maximum amount of federal funding available for the remediation of brownfield sites from $500,000 to $1,000,000 for each site. This increase is intended to provide more substantial financial support for the cleanup process.
• Extended Funding Period: The bill also extends the federal funding commitment for brownfields revitalization from $200,000,000 per year for the fiscal years 2019 through 2023 to $250,000,000 each year for the fiscal years 2026 through 2030. This change increases the available resources for these cleanup efforts during that future timeframe.
• State Response Programs: The amendments include updates to state response programs, allowing them to implement enhanced cleanup practices and expanding their capabilities to address contaminated sites. This includes changes in the language to clarify the state’s ability to enhance or implement program elements effectively.

Overall Purpose

The purpose of this legislation is to encourage the cleanup and redevelopment of brownfield sites across the United States. By increasing the available funding and extending the financial commitment, the bill aims to facilitate more extensive revitalization efforts, which can lead to environmental improvements and economic development in affected communities.

Funding Structure

The bill seeks to provide a more robust funding structure to assist local governments and organizations working to remediate brownfield sites. With the increased funding limits, jurisdictions may undertake larger and more comprehensive cleanup projects, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of revitalization strategies.

Benefits of Brownfields Revitalization

Revitalizing brownfields can have multiple benefits, including:

• Improving local property values
• Expanding economic opportunities
• Creating jobs in cleanup and redevelopment efforts
• Enhancing community health by reducing pollution and fostering safer environments

Relevant Companies

• DOW - Dow Inc.: As a company involved in chemicals and materials, Dow may be engaged in brownfield cleanup through its environmental solutions division, potentially being impacted by increased regulatory requirements and funding opportunities.
• VMC - Vulcan Materials Company: A major supplier of construction materials, Vulcan could benefit from increased construction activities on remediated brownfields, facilitating new projects and growth opportunities.