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Empowering Environmental Justice: New Office and Funds in Department of Justice

This act establishes a new Office of Environmental Justice and an Environmental Justice Section within the Department of Justice to better protect communities vulnerable to pollution. Citizens will gain greater opportunities to participate in environmental decisions and access legal support, while local authorities will receive funds to enforce environmental regulations.
Key points
Creation of an Office of Environmental Justice within the Department of Justice to coordinate environmental protection actions and strategies for all citizens.
Establishment of an Environmental Justice Section responsible for litigating cases to ensure fair health and environmental protection, especially in vulnerable communities.
Launch of a grant program, authorizing $50 million annually for 2023-2032, to support state, local, and tribal governments in enforcing environmental laws and providing legal assistance to communities.
Increased opportunities for public participation in environmental decision-making processes and easier filing of administrative complaints.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_5081
Sponsor: Sen. Padilla, Alex [D-CA]
Process start date: 2022-11-14
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Empowering and Enforcing Environmental Justice Act of 2022

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_S_5081.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2022-11-14.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Creation of an Office of Environmental Justice within the Department of Justice to coordinate environmental protection actions and strategies for all citizens.
  • Establishment of an Environmental Justice Section responsible for litigating cases to ensure fair health and environmental protection, especially in vulnerable communities.
  • Launch of a grant program, authorizing $50 million annually for 2023-2032, to support state, local, and tribal governments in enforcing environmental laws and providing legal assistance to communities.
  • Increased opportunities for public participation in environmental decision-making processes and easier filing of administrative complaints.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Padilla, Alex [D-CA].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2026-01-02.

CATEGORIES

Environment Courts and Law Public Investments