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- The Biden-Harris Administration announced on January 24, 2024, a $3.3 billion investment to bolster community cooling programs across the United States, aiming to protect vulnerable populations from extreme...
- The administration highlighted that extreme heat disproportionately impacts low-income communities, communities of colour, and older adults.
- This declaration builds on the Biden-Harris Administration's broader efforts to address climate change and environmental justice through the Inflation Reduction Act, signed into law on August 16, 2022.
Biden-Harris Administration Announces $3.3 Billion for Community Cooling programs
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The Biden-Harris Administration announced on January 24, 2024, a $3.3 billion investment to bolster community cooling programs across the United States, aiming to protect vulnerable populations from extreme heat.The funding, allocated thru the Inflation Reduction Act, will support initiatives like cooling centers, tree planting, and home weatherization programs.
Funding Breakdown & Key Initiatives
- $2 Billion for the Building Resilience Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program: This will fund large-scale infrastructure projects focused on community resilience, including cooling infrastructure. (FEMA BRIC Program)
- $1.3 Billion for Cooling Centers: the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) will receive $1.3 billion specifically for establishing and enhancing cooling centers, notably in underserved communities. (LIHEAP Program)
Addressing Heat Disparities
The administration highlighted that extreme heat disproportionately impacts low-income communities, communities of colour, and older adults. According to the Centers for disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heat-related deaths are increasing in the U.S., with a 27% increase between 2018 and 2023. (CDC Heat & Health)
“Extreme heat is a growing crisis, and itS disproportionately impacting vulnerable communities,” said Vice President kamala Harris in a statement released January 24, 2024. “This investment will help communities build resilience and protect people from the dangers of rising temperatures.”
Inflation Reduction Act Impact
This declaration builds on the Biden-Harris Administration’s broader efforts to address climate change and environmental justice through the Inflation Reduction Act, signed into law on August 16, 2022. The Act provides a total of $369 billion in climate and clean energy investments. (White House Inflation Reduction Act Page)
The administration expects these programs to create jobs and stimulate local economies while together protecting public health.