Last progress July 22, 2025 (4 months ago)
Introduced on July 22, 2025 by Richard Joseph Durbin
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance. (text: CR S4529)
This plan creates a national commission and a dedicated fund to help communities prepare for floods, heat, fires, and other climate impacts. The commission will set simple, science-based guidelines for what kinds of projects get federal support, like stronger power lines, safer roads and bridges, better water systems, and other upgrades that make towns more resilient. It must involve local people early and clearly when shaping those guidelines . The fund will pay for new adaptation projects run by eligible state, local, or similar entities. At least 40% of the money must benefit communities that face the worst climate harms, including low‑income, frontline, and environmental justice communities . Workers on funded projects must be paid local prevailing wages .
Money for the fund comes from special Treasury bonds backed by the full faith and credit of the United States. The Treasury must start issuing these within six months of the law taking effect, with $200 million offered each year and up to $800 million more if there is strong demand. These bonds are exempt from state and local taxes, and the government can spend up to $10 million per year from 2026–2030 to promote them . The Commerce Department will run the grant program using the commission’s guidelines, prioritize places with the greatest need, and offer technical help with applications. Normally, local partners put up 25% of project costs, but the Department can waive that requirement. In fact, 10%–40% of total awards must go to “no‑match” projects, with priority to overburdened communities . The commission’s admin costs are capped at 3% of project funds, and it sunsets after 20 years .
Key points