Preventing Heat-Related Health Emergencies, Illness, and Deaths Act
This Act aims to protect citizens from the effects of extreme heat, which is a leading cause of weather-related deaths. It establishes a federal coordination system and financial assistance programs for communities to better prepare for, respond to, and mitigate the negative health impacts of heatwaves, especially in vulnerable groups. Citizens will gain access to improved information, tools, and resources to help them protect themselves and their families from heat-related dangers.
Key points
Establishment of the National Integrated Heat Health Information System (NIHHIS) and an Interagency Committee to coordinate federal efforts in heat prevention and response.
Creation of financial assistance programs for communities, non-profit entities, local governments, and Indian Tribes for projects reducing heat-health risks, such as cool roofs, urban forestry, cooling centers, and training.
Prioritization of low-income communities and those with environmental justice concerns, allocating at least 40% of financial assistance to heat resilience projects in these areas.
Mandating a study to identify policy, research, and data gaps concerning extreme heat, leading to improved citizen protection strategies.
Enhancement of data collection and delivery of heat-related information, forecasts, and warnings to enable citizens to make informed safety decisions.
Introduced
Citizen Poll