GOP lawmakers seek climate funds they opposed

Republican lawmakers who criticized Biden-era climate spending are now seeking funds from the same programs to benefit their states and districts.

Kelsey Brugger reports for E&E News.

In short:

More than a dozen Republican lawmakers requested U.S. EPA funding for climate projects, despite previously opposing the Inflation Reduction Act that funds them.
Requests included grants for air quality monitors, tree planting, clean transportation and water treatment improvements.
The Trump administration has put a 90-day review on the funds, leaving some projects in limbo.

Key quote:

“It is happening in both Republican and Democratic areas. We need to be focused on those communities making sure they have the resources necessary to heal.”

— Mustafa Santiago Ali, National Wildlife Federation

Why this matters:

Climate change and pollution affect communities regardless of political affiliation. While lawmakers debate policy, local projects to improve air quality, water infrastructure and climate resilience remain urgent. The delay in funding could stall critical environmental justice initiatives, particularly in underserved areas. While many Republicans oppose large-scale federal climate initiatives on ideological grounds, some have quietly sought funding for projects in their own districts. This dynamic highlights the tension between national political rhetoric and local realities, where constituents — regardless of party — demand solutions to worsening environmental challenges.

www.eenews.net

GOP lawmakers seek climate funds they opposed

Heat waves cost some Toronto residents more

Urban heat islands have solutions; many tropical cities can’t afford them

In Arizona, the thermostat is driving voters to the polls

Tick populations surge as the climate warms, and farmers bear the brunt

What to know about the Supreme Court’s major climate case this fall

Hot weather forces marathons to consider changes to help runners

US aluminum is poised for a comeback — if it overcomes these hurdles

Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

One facility has emitted cancer-causing chemicals into waterways at levels up to 520% higher than legal limits.

Pennsylvania health advocates say Trump’s first 100 days in office have caused “100 harms” to local communities

“They're terrorizing these scientists because they want to keep them silent.”

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

"The reality is, we are not exposed to one chemical at a time.”

Two years into his term, has Gov. Shapiro kept his promises to regulate Pennsylvania’s fracking industry?

A new report assesses the administration’s progress and makes new recommendations

An open letter from EPA staff to the American public

“We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. We need to hold this administration accountable.”

New evidence links heavy metal pollution with wildfire retardants

“The chemical black box” that blankets wildfire-impacted areas is increasingly under scrutiny.