Concrete and Asphalt Innovation Act of 2025

This bill would speed up the use of cleaner cement, concrete, and asphalt across the country. It directs the Department of Energy to run research and real‑world pilot projects to cut greenhouse gases from how these materials are made and used, set baseline pollution levels, and lay out a regional timeline for reducing them. It also allows the creation of two national institutes to test new mixes, share data openly, and train workers.

For roads and other public works, the plan would help states afford low‑emission materials by reimbursing the extra cost and giving a small 2% bonus on highway projects. States would also get help updating standards and measuring the “embodied” emissions in their materials (the pollution from making them), and a public directory would list approved products to make purchasing easier. It also lets states sign multi‑year contracts with U.S. producers of innovative cement and asphalt, with guardrails like paying only after delivery and requiring proof of progress. An interagency task force would align standards, lower costs, and build a skilled workforce, aiming for cleaner air and durable, cost‑effective projects.

• Who is affected
  • State and local transportation agencies, road builders, and material producers, plus workers in these industries.
• What changes
  • DOE research and pilot projects to cut emissions, with $200 million authorized for 2025–2029.
  • Federal Highway Administration reimbursement of added costs and a 2% incentive for using low‑emission mixes, plus technical help; $15 million authorized for 2025–2027.
  • A public directory of eligible low‑emission cement, concrete, and asphalt to simplify purchasing.
  • Option for states to use advance multi‑year contracts with clear safeguards to manage risk.
  • Two national testing/training centers to validate materials, share data, and build the workforce.
  • DOE will set baseline pollution levels and a regional timeline for reductions.
• When
  • Key programs begin within 180 days of enactment; DOE sets a regional emissions‑reduction timeline within one year.
  • FHWA sets up the directory process within 180 days.