Climate

Recognizing the 2d anniversary of the adoption of the international Paris Agreement on climate change.

United States · United States Congress · 12 December 2017

Recognizes the second anniversary of the adoption of the Paris Agreement, an international agreement to keep global temperature from rising 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) above preindustrial levels, and recommends that the United States remain a signatory to the global warming agreement.

Geoengineering Research Evaluation Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 7 December 2017

Geoengineering Research Evaluation Act of 2017 This bill requires the Department of Energy to contract with the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to conduct a study and develop: (1) a Phase I report recommending a research agenda for advancing understanding of albedo modification strategies that involve atmospheric interventions, such as cloud modification; and (2) a Phase II report that provides specific guidance on governance mechanisms for the proposed research agenda developed in Phase I. Generally, albedo modifications are geoengineering strategies that are designed to manipulate the climate and reduce the amount of radiation that is trapped in the earth’s atmosphere by reflecting light. After the completion of the Phase II report, the Office of Science and Technology Policy must report to Congress on an implementation plan for geoengineering research and research governance.

National Integrated Drought Information System Reauthorization Act of 2018

United States · United States Congress · 6 December 2017

National Integrated Drought Information System Reauthorization Act of 2018 This bill reauthorizes through FY2023 and modifies the National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS) Program. The bill amends the National Integrated Drought Information System Act of 2006 to require, under NIDIS, that the collection and integration of information on the key indicators of drought and drought impacts includes indicators of precipitation, soil moisture, and evaporative demand. NIDIS shall also: provide timely data, information, and products that reflect watershed differences in drought conditions; through interagency agreements, coordinate and integrate future federal research and monitoring in support of a drought early warning information system; utilize existing forecasting and assessment programs and partnerships, including forecast communication coordinators and cooperative institutes, and improvements in seasonal, subseasonal, and low flow water prediction; and continue ongoing research and monitoring activities related to drought, including research activities relating to the prediction of drought. NIDIS may: engage with the private sector to improve drought forecast and communication if the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration determines such partnership is appropriate, cost-effective, and beneficial to the public and the decision-makers specified in the Act; and facilitate the development of one or more academic cooperative partnerships to assist with NIDIS functions. NIDIS shall develop a strategy for a national coordinated soil moisture monitoring network. The bill amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to extend through FY2023 certain activities related to the provision of agricultural and silvicultural weather and climate information.

Living Shorelines Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 1 December 2017

Living Shorelines Act of 2017 This bill requires the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to provide grants for climate resilient living shoreline projects and to encourage innovation in the use of natural materials to protect coastal communities.

SAFE Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 November 2017

Safeguarding America's Future and Environment Act or the SAFE Act This bill requires the President to establish a National Fish, Wildlife, and Plants Climate Adaptation Strategy Joint Implementation Working Group to address the effects of extreme weather and climate change on fish, wildlife, and plants, including by adopting a national strategy and completing strategy implementation plans. Federal agencies must integrate the elements of the national strategy that relate to conservation, management, and protection of fish, wildlife, and plants into their plans, environmental reviews, and programs. The Department of the Interior must establish: (1) a National Climate Change and Wildlife Science Center to assess and develop scientific information, tools, strategies, and techniques to support interested parties in addressing the effects of extreme weather and climate change on fish, wildlife, and plants; and (2) an Advisory Committee on Climate Change and Natural Resource Sciences to advise the working group. In order to be eligible to receive funds under this bill, a state must submit to Interior and the Department of Commerce a fish, wildlife, and plant adaptation plan detailing efforts to address the effects of climate change on fish, wildlife, and plants and coastal areas within the state's jurisdiction.

SAFE Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 November 2017

Safeguarding America's Future and Environment Act or the SAFE Act This bill requires the President to establish a National Fish, Wildlife, and Plants Climate Adaptation Strategy Joint Implementation Working Group to address the effects of extreme weather and climate change on fish, wildlife, and plants, including by adopting a national strategy and completing strategy implementation plans. Federal agencies must integrate the elements of the national strategy that relate to conservation, management, and protection of fish, wildlife, and plants into their plans, environmental reviews, and programs. The Department of the Interior must establish: (1) a National Climate Change and Wildlife Science Center to assess and develop scientific information, tools, strategies, and techniques to support interested parties in addressing the effects of extreme weather and climate change on fish, wildlife, and plants; and (2) an Advisory Committee on Climate Change and Natural Resource Sciences to advise the working group. In order to be eligible to receive funds under this bill, a state must submit to Interior and the Department of Commerce a fish, wildlife, and plant adaptation plan detailing efforts to address the effects of climate change on fish, wildlife, and plants and coastal areas within the state's jurisdiction.

Sustainable Energy Development Reform Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 November 2017

Sustainable Energy Development Reform Act This bill addresses sustainable energy development, including to (1) increase royalty rates and penalties for oil and gas leasing; (2) increase the amount of renewable energy on public land and waters; (3) prepare and manage for the impacts of climate change; (4) revise the onshore and offshore fossil fuel leasing, exploration, and development program; and (5) include the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as a component of the National Wilderness Preservation System and reauthorize the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Having Open Access to Relevant Data Act or the Hoard Act The bill requires the Department of the Interior to submit to Congress a report on the number and age of unused approved oil and gas drilling permits and the average cost to the Bureau of Land Management of approving such permits.

ARC-CO Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 October 2017

ARC-CO Improvement Act This bill amends the Agricultural Act of 2014 to authorize the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to make certain adjustments to county yields used to calculate actual crop revenue under the Agriculture Risk Coverage-County Level program (ARC-CO) to reduce disparities between neighboring and nearby counties with similar soils and climate that cannot be explained by a localized weather event. (Under ARC-CO, farmers receive payments when the actual county crop revenue of a covered commodity is less than the ARC-CO guarantee for the covered commodity.) In the case of county coverage, USDA must: (1) prioritize the use of yields from sources that provide the greatest geographic coverage of county-level data from the same source; and (2) use the yield, benchmark revenue, and payment rate based on the county of the physical location of the farm. With respect to a farm that crosses county boundaries, USDA must: (1) split the base acres on a pro rata basis based on the relative quantity of cropland in each county, and (2) calculate any payments on the same pro rata basis.

Supporting the understanding that climate change is real.

United States · United States Congress · 2 October 2017

States that the House of Representatives supports the reentry of the United States into the Paris Climate Accord; stands with the victims of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Jose, and Maria; and will move effectively to aid in their recovery.

Patsy T. Mink Gender Equity in Education Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2017

Patsy T. Mink Gender Equity in Education Act of 2017 This bill requires the Department of Education (ED) to establish an Office for Gender Equity to support state and local educational agencies, institutions of higher education, and elementary and secondary schools in fully implementing title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in federally funded education programs or activities. The office may provide grants and perform activities to reduce or prevent discrimination, bias, harassment, or violence based on actual or perceived sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions or stereotypes in all areas of education. The office must provide technical assistance and annual training to title IX coordinators and develop a handbook for conducting self-evaluations of title IX compliance. The training must address "compound discrimination" (defined as discrimination based on sex and other characteristics, including race, ethnicity, national origin, disability status, religion, or age). The office may award grants to educational entities and partnerships to: train students, teachers, faculty, and personnel; increase campus resources, facilities, and course offerings; support title IX coordinators in performing outreach, advocacy, and education; identify patterns or systemic problems in title IX compliance; strengthen prevention education and awareness programs; conduct campus climate and victimization surveys; identify gender inequities; and improve data collection and reporting of gender equity indicators from academic assessments, civil rights data, campus data, employment data, attendance and absenteeism data, or title IX coordinator-to-student ratios. ED must coordinate with the Institute of Education Sciences and other federal offices and entities to investigate, identify, and disseminate best practices to: (1) reduce and prevent sex stereotyping, bias, and discrimination in curricula and educational materials; (2) address sex-based harassment and violence on campuses; (3) develop counseling and career guidance training; (4) mitigate implicit bias in teaching and discipline; and (5) address the needs of students who face compound discrimination.

Climate Change Health Protection and Promotion Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2017

Climate Change Health Protection and Promotion Act of 2017 This bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to publish and implement a strategic action plan and to establish a climate and health program to ensure the public health and health care systems in the United States and other nations are prepared for, and can respond to, the impacts of climate change on health. The bill directs HHS to revise the plan periodically to reflect new scientific developments and information. HHS must establish a permanent science advisory board to provide: (1) scientific and technical recommendations on the impacts of climate change on public health, and (2) advice for purposes of issuing the plan and conducting the program.

Climate Change Health Protection and Promotion Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2017

Climate Change Health Protection and Promotion Act of 2017 This bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to publish and implement a strategic action plan and to establish a climate and health program to ensure the public health and health care systems in the United States and other nations are prepared for, and can respond to, the impacts of climate change on health. The bill directs HHS to revise the plan periodically to reflect new scientific developments and information. HHS must establish a permanent science advisory board to provide: (1) scientific and technical recommendations on the impacts of climate change on public health, and (2) advice for purposes of issuing the plan and conducting the program.

Coastal State Climate Preparedness Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 28 July 2017

Coastal State Climate Preparedness Act of 2017 This bill directs the Department of Commerce to establish a coastal climate change adaptation preparedness and response program to assist coastal states with the voluntary development of coastal climate change adaptation plans to (1) minimize contributions to climate change, and (2) prepare for and reduce the negative consequences that may result from climate change in the coastal zone.

To direct the Securities and Exchange Commission to withdraw guidance regarding disclosure related to climate change.

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2017

This bill requires the Securities and Exchange Commission to withdraw its guidance titled "Commission Guidance Regarding Disclosure Related to Climate Change" published in the Federal Register on February 8, 2010.

Beach Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2017

Beach Act of 2017 This bill amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (commonly known as the Clean Water Act) to revise and reauthorize through FY2021 a grant program for monitoring, and notifying the public of, any pathogens in coastal recreation waters bordering public beaches. The bill reauthorizes through FY2021 the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health Act of 2000. The bill establishes requirements with respect to: (1) using rapid testing methods to detect unsafe levels of pathogens or pathogen indicators in such coastal recreation waters, and (2) notifying governmental agencies when pathogens exceed water quality standards. Those methods must provide testing results within four hours of receiving a sample. The applicable state or local government must communicate the presence of any pathogens within two hours of receipt of a water quality sample. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must assess state and local compliance with coastal recreation water quality monitoring and notification legal requirements and grant conditions. The bill limits federal share of grants to non-compliant state or local governments. The Government Accountability Office must review the EPA's compliance assessments and corrective actions. States with coastal recreation waters must adopt the most protective water quality criteria and standards practicable for pathogens. The EPA must: (1) update the national list of beaches that are used by the public regardless of the presence of a lifeguard within 12 months and biennially thereafter (currently, periodically); (2) study the long-term impact of climate change on pathogenic contamination of coastal recreation waters; and (3) study the impacts of excess nutrients on coastal recreation waters.

100 by '50 Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2017

100 by '50 Act This bill calls for the United States to aggressively reduce carbon pollution as rapidly as practicable and achieve 100% clean and renewable energy by 2050. It provides financial support (e.g., grant programs and loans) for clean and renewable energy, including support for affordable zero-emission vehicle-based public transportation, solar energy, and energy efficiency retrofits in homes. The bill provides job training, unemployment compensation, health benefits, and pension and other benefits and services to adversely affected workers employed in the fossil fuel energy sector. The bill amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to create annual caps on fossil fuel electricity beginning in 2022 and ending in 2050 when it is phased out. The Department of Energy (DOE) must establish a grant program for energy storage and dispatchable energy technologies. The bill provides financial incentives (e.g., tax credits and grants) for clean and renewable energy, energy efficiency improvements, and energy storage. The bill amends the Clean Air Act to establish a zero-emission vehicle standard. In addition, it establishes: (1) a carbon fee to transition the commercial aviation, maritime transportation, and rail sectors away from fossil fuel usage; (2) grant programs for zero-emission vehicles; (3) a national highway decarbonization grant program; and (4) tax credits for electric vehicles, hybrid trucks, biofuels, and alternative fuels. DOE must also establish a zero-emission residential and commercial heating grant program. The bill: (1) terminates specified fossil fuel subsidies, and (2) creates a climate duty for carbon-intensive products imported from other countries. The Department of the Treasury must issue climate bonds. The proceeds of the bonds must be deposited in the Climate Fund, which may be used to carry out the bill.

Water and Energy Sustainability through Technology Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2017

Water and Energy Sustainability through Technology Act This bill addresses the link between energy and water systems (energy-water nexus), including: (1) the water needed to produce energy; (2) the energy needed to transport, reclaim, treat, store, and reuse water and wastewater; (3) the energy available in organic wastewaters and wet waste streams (e.g., methane); and (4) the waste heat available in industrial process and cooling water discharges, steam system condensate and cooling water, and thermoelectric cooling water discharge. The bill provides support for increasing: the availability of energy-water nexus data about surface water, groundwater, or recycled water; the use of energy-water nexus technology; the energy efficiency of certain water systems; the use of water efficiency methods and products; water quality; the recharge of groundwater; the ability of water systems to address climate-related impacts on water quality or quantity; and the infrastructure of water and wastewater systems. In addition, the bill establishes a United States-Israel Water Cooperation Working Group to seek to strengthen dialogue between the United States and Israel in order to: (1) improve the use of water resources through water-saving technologies and practices; (2) counter water shortages; (3) modernize pipeline and other applicable infrastructure; and (4) pursue best practices in drip irrigation, water recycling, and desalination. The bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to eliminate certain tax incentives related to the extraction of oil, gas, or certain minerals.

Protect United States Security in the Arctic Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2017

Protect United States Security in the Arctic Act of 2017 This bill instructs the President to submit to Congress a strategy to protect U.S. interests in the Arctic region. Such strategy shall include goals to: improve telecommunications, navigation, ocean and coastal mapping, and Coast Guard and other infrastructure to support a sustained security and emergency response presence for Alaska; direct the U.S. representative to the Arctic Council to use the voice and vote of the United States to conduct increased confidence-building and cooperative security measures with other member countries; support climate resilience efforts across the Arctic region; and sustain robust research funding to understand the ongoing climate changes in the Arctic region and their global impact. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) shall submit a report that assesses the cost and procurement schedule for new U.S. icebreakers. Consistent with the recapitalization plan for the acquisition of heavy and medium icebreakers to meet Coast Guard statutory missions in the polar regions, the department in which the Coast Guard is operating: (1) may enter into a contract to procure up to three Coast Guard heavy icebreakers for the defense of U.S. interests in the Arctic region, beginning In FY2018; and (2) shall report on its plans to procure and sustain icebreakers in addition to the vessels authorized to be procured under such contract and to ensure that at least three Coast Guard icebreakers are ready for operations at all times.

Transparency and Honesty in Energy Regulations Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 29 June 2017

Transparency and Honesty in Energy Regulations Act of 2017 This bill prohibits the Department of Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Department of the Interior, and the Council on Environmental Quality from considering the social cost of carbon, methane, or nitrous oxide as part of any cost benefit analysis in the rule making process, unless a federal law is enacted authorizing such consideration. They may also consider those social costs if they use an estimate that: (1) complies with the requirements of the Office of Management and Budget's "Circular A-4" document; (2) uses the discount rates of three and seven percent specified in that document; (3) considers only the domestic costs and benefits of the activity; and (4) uses only the most up to date and empirically estimated equilibrium climate sensitivity distributions, and realistic time horizons. The EPA must report on the number of proposed and final rulemakings, guidance documents, and agency actions since January 2009 that use those social costs, including as part of any cost benefit analysis required under Executive Order 12866 or other relevant authority.

Patsy T. Mink Gender Equity in Education Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2017

Patsy T. Mink Gender Equity in Education Act of 2017 This bill requires the Department of Education (ED) to establish an Office for Gender Equity to support state and local educational agencies, institutions of higher education, and elementary and secondary schools in fully implementing title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in federally funded education programs or activities. The office may provide grants and perform activities to reduce or prevent discrimination, bias, harassment, or violence based on actual or perceived sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions or stereotypes in all areas of education. The office must provide technical assistance and annual training to title IX coordinators and develop a handbook for conducting self-evaluations of title IX compliance. The training must address "compound discrimination" (defined as discrimination based on sex and other characteristics, including race, ethnicity, national origin, disability status, religion, or age). The office may award grants to educational entities and partnerships to: train students, teachers, faculty, and personnel; increase campus resources, facilities, and course offerings; support title IX coordinators in performing outreach, advocacy, and education; identify patterns or systemic problems in title IX compliance; strengthen prevention education and awareness programs; conduct campus climate and victimization surveys; identify gender inequities; and improve data collection and reporting of gender equity indicators from academic assessments, civil rights data, campus data, employment data, attendance and absenteeism data, or title IX coordinator-to-student ratios. ED must coordinate with the Institute of Education Sciences and other federal offices and entities to investigate, identify, and disseminate best practices to: (1) reduce and prevent sex stereotyping, bias, and discrimination in curricula and educational materials; (2) address sex-based harassment and violence on campuses; (3) develop counseling and career guidance training; (4) mitigate implicit bias in teaching and discipline; and (5) address the needs of students who face compound discrimination.

Climate Solutions Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2017

Climate Solutions Act of 2017 This bill amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 by directing the Department of Energy (DOE) to promulgate regulations that require the percentage of electric energy generated from renewable sources that is sold at the retail level to increase each year beginning in 2020 so that in 2050 and each subsequent year, the percentage is at least 80%. DOE must also promulgate regulations that set cumulative energy savings targets for retail electric energy and natural gas suppliers that require each supplier to secure annual savings that are achieved through end-use efficiency improvements at customer facilities. For electric energy suppliers, the targets must increase from .25% of sales in 2020 to 1.5% of sales in 2025 and each year thereafter through 2030. For natural gas suppliers, the target must increase from .25% of sales in 2020 to .5% of sales in 2025 and each year thereafter through 2030. DOE must allow suppliers to achieve the targets through a market-based trading system. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must promulgate annual emission reduction targets for each of 2030 through 2050 to ensure that U.S. greenhouse gas emissions: (1) in 2035 are at least 40% below those in 1990, and (2) in 2050 are at least 80% below those in 1990. The EPA must promulgate final regulations to implement those targets within 7 years and review them at least every 5 years thereafter.

Expressing strong disapproval of the President's announcement to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement.

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2017

Expresses strong disapproval of the President's announcement to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement on climate change. Commends the group of states, cities, colleges and universities, businesses, investors, and individuals who have publicly expressed their support for such agreement. Urges the President to reverse his decision and maintain U.S. participation in such agreement.

Climate Change National Security Strategy Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2017

Climate Change National Security Strategy Act of 2017 This bill requires the National Security Advisor and the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy to jointly establish an interagency Climate and National Security Working Group, which must develop an action plan on current and projected climate-related impacts on national security interests. Specified federal departments and agencies must each develop a plan that ensures that such impacts are identified and considered in the development and implementation of relevant national security doctrine, policies, and plans. The plans must be updated at least annually.

SUPER Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2017

SUper Pollutant Emissions Reduction Act of 2017 or the SUPER Act of 2017 This bill requires the President to establish the Task Force on Super Pollutants to: review existing and potential policies and measures that promote the reduction of short-lived climate pollutants, in part by identifying and evaluating programs and activities of the federal government that contribute to a reduction; identify and recommend specific federal programs and activities that are duplicative and that can be consolidated to achieve greater efficiency and effectiveness; identify gaps where programs do not exist and recommend programs and activities to fill these gaps to reduce short-lived climate pollutants, with an emphasis on industry standards and public-private partnerships; identify activities where reductions in those pollutants can continue to spur innovation and job creation and increase U.S. competitiveness in the global market for new technologies to replace those using short-lived climate pollutants; identify, compile, evaluate, and develop best practices for reducing those pollutants; and report to Congress on its findings and recommendations. A "short-lived climate pollutant" is black carbon, methane, hydrofluorocarbons, tropospheric ozone and its precursors, or emissions from banks of ozone-depleting substances.

Beach Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2017

Beach Act of 2017 This bill amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (commonly known as the Clean Water Act) to revise and reauthorize through FY2021 a grant program for monitoring, and notifying the public of, any pathogens in coastal recreation waters bordering public beaches. The bill reauthorizes through FY2021 the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health Act of 2000. The bill establishes requirements with respect to: (1) using rapid testing methods to detect unsafe levels of pathogens or pathogen indicators in such coastal recreation waters, and (2) notifying governmental agencies when pathogens exceed water quality standards. Those methods must provide testing results within four hours of receiving a sample. The applicable state or local government must communicate the presence of any pathogens within two hours of receipt of a water quality sample. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must assess state and local compliance with coastal recreation water quality monitoring and notification legal requirements and grant conditions. The bill limits federal share of grants to non-compliant state or local governments. The Government Accountability Office must review the EPA's compliance assessments and corrective actions. States with coastal recreation waters must adopt the most protective water quality criteria and standards practicable for pathogens. The EPA must: (1) update the national list of beaches that are used by the public regardless of the presence of a lifeguard within 12 months and biennially thereafter (currently, periodically); (2) study the long-term impact of climate change on pathogenic contamination of coastal recreation waters; and (3) study the impacts of excess nutrients on coastal recreation waters.

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress that the United States should withdraw from the Paris Agreement, adopted in December 2015.

United States · United States Congress · 22 May 2017

Expresses the sense of Congress that the United States should withdraw from the Paris Agreement on climate change, adopted in December 2015.

Expressing the sense of Congress that the United States should withdraw from the Paris Agreement, adopted in December 2015.

United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2017

Expresses the sense of Congress that the United States should withdraw from the Paris Agreement on climate change, adopted in December 2015.

Fighting Against Imbalanced Regulatory Burdens Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 16 May 2017

Fighting Against Imbalanced Regulatory Burdens Act of 2017 This bill amends the Clean Air Act to prohibit a regulation concerning emissions of carbon dioxide from a fossil fuel-fired electric generating unit from taking effect until the Environmental Protection Agency certifies that a sufficient number of countries have adopted climate change regulations for carbon dioxide that are at least as stringent. A "sufficient number" is a number of countries that account for at least 80% of global carbon dioxide emissions in the last year, excluding those in the United States.

A resolution celebrating April 30 through May 6, 2017, as "National Small Business Week" and commending the entrepreneurial spirit of small businesses owners in the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 16 May 2017

Supports: (1) the designation of the week of April 30-May 6, 2017, as National Small Business Week; and (2) increasing consumer awareness of the value and opportunity that small businesses bring to local communities. Celebrates: (1) the entrepreneurial spirit of small business owners in the United States, and (2) the invaluable contribution that small businesses make to the United States as the backbone of the economy. Recognizes the importance of creating a small business climate that allows for sustained entrepreneurial success.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the United States should work in cooperation with the international community and continue to exercise global leadership to address the causes and effects of climate change, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 4 May 2017

Urges the United States to: work in cooperation with the international community and continue to exercise global leadership in shared responsibilities and address the causes and effects of climate change, remain party to the Paris Agreement and the 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and implement U.S. commitments under them, continue demonstrating strong leadership in implementing the Paris Agreement, and ensure that the development of the policies and procedures prescribed by the Paris Agreement achieve maximum benefits for the United States.

Climate Solutions Commission Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 3 May 2017

Climate Solutions Commission Act of 2017 This bill establishes a bipartisan National Climate Solutions Commission that must: undertake a comprehensive review of economically viable actions or policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the United States; make recommendations for reducing greenhouse gas emissions to the President, Congress, and the states; and use as its goals for emissions reductions those estimated rates of reduction that reflect the latest scientific findings of what is needed to avoid serious human health and environmental consequences of a changing climate. In order to be eligible for membership on the commission, an individual must be a representative from: (1) nongovernmental organizations with expertise in the economy, energy, climate, or public health; or (2) industry organizations from relevant sectors. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) must conduct a study of programs, financial tools, and institutions that are focused on: (1) reducing the level of greenhouse gas emissions; or (2) encouraging the research, development, prototyping, and deployment of energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies. The GAO must then report on: (1) the study results; and (2) an assessment of those financial tools, policies, and institutions that are most successful at reducing greenhouse gas emissions while protecting economic growth and employment.

Stop Arctic Ocean Drilling Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 1 May 2017

Stop Arctic Ocean Drilling Act of 201 7 This bill declares that it is the policy of the United States that the Arctic Ocean should be managed for the best interests of the people of the United States, including by keeping fossil fuels in the ground to avoid the dangerous impacts of climate change. The Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act is amended to prohibit the Department of the Interior from issuing or renewing a lease or any other authorization for the exploration, development, or production of oil, natural gas, or any other mineral in the Arctic Ocean, including the Beaufort Sea and Chukchi Sea Planning Areas.

100 by '50 Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 April 2017

100 by '50 Act This bill calls for the United States to aggressively reduce carbon pollution as rapidly as practicable and achieve 100% clean and renewable energy by 2050. It provides financial support (e.g., grant programs and loans) for clean and renewable energy, including support for affordable zero-emission vehicle-based public transportation, solar energy, and energy efficiency retrofits in homes. The bill provides job training, unemployment compensation, health benefits, and pension and other benefits and services to adversely affected workers employed in the fossil fuel energy sector. The bill amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to create annual caps on fossil fuel electricity beginning in 2022 and ending in 2050 when it is phased out. The Department of Energy (DOE) must establish a grant program for energy storage and dispatchable energy technologies. The bill provides financial incentives (e.g., tax credits and grants) for clean and renewable energy, energy efficiency improvements, and energy storage. The bill amends the Clean Air Act to establish a zero-emission vehicle standard. In addition, it establishes: (1) a carbon fee to transition the commercial aviation, maritime transportation, and rail sectors away from fossil fuel usage; (2) grant programs for zero-emission vehicles; (3) a national highway decarbonization grant program; and (4) tax credits for electric vehicles, hybrid trucks, biofuels, and alternative fuels. DOE must also establish a zero-emission residential and commercial heating grant program. The bill: (1) terminates specified fossil fuel subsidies, and (2) creates a climate duty for carbon-intensive products imported from other countries. The Department of the Treasury must issue climate bonds. The proceeds of the bonds must be deposited in the Climate Fund, which may be used to carry out the bill.

Climate Change Adapt America Fund Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2017

Climate Change Adapt America Fund Act of 2017 This bill requires the Department of the Treasury to issue climate change obligations. The proceeds from the debt obligations must be deposited in the Adapt America Fund established by this bill within the Department of Commerce. Commerce must carry out an investment program to fund projects for reducing economic, social, and environmental impact of the adverse effects of climate change. The bill establishes the Climate Change Advisory Commission to: (1) establish recommendations, frameworks, and guidelines for the investment program; and (2) identify categories of the most cost-effective investments and projects that emphasize multiple benefits to commerce, human health, and ecosystems.

Climate Change Adapt America Fund Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 24 April 2017

Climate Change Adapt America Fund Act of 2017 This bill requires the Department of the Treasury to issue climate change obligations. The proceeds from the debt obligations must be deposited in the Adapt America Fund established by this bill within the Department of Commerce. Commerce must carry out an investment program to fund projects for reducing economic, social, and environmental impact of the adverse effects of climate change. The bill establishes the Climate Change Advisory Commission to: (1) establish recommendations, frameworks, and guidelines for the investment program; and (2) identify categories of the most cost-effective investments and projects that emphasize multiple benefits to commerce, human health, and ecosystems.

OPENS Alaska Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 6 April 2017

Offshore Production and Energizing National Security Alaska Act of 2017 or the OPENS Alaska Act of 2017 This bill nullifies the memorandum issued by the President on December 20, 2016, entitled "Withdrawal of Certain Portions of the United States Arctic Outer Continental Shelf from Mineral Leasing." The bill also nullifies any other presidential action to prohibit mineral leasing in certain portions of the Arctic Outer Continental Shelf. The bill directs the Department of the Interior to establish a Nearshore Beaufort Sea Planning Area in the Outer Continental Shelf within three nautical miles of the seaward boundary of Alaska and conduct one oil and gas lease sale under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) in such planning area and the Cook Inlet Planning Area in each of FY2018-FY2020. Oil and gas leases under the OCSLA shall have an initial 20-year lease period if they are located in the portion of the Beaufort Planning Area or the Chukchi Planning Area beyond 3 nautical miles of the seaward boundary of Alaska. The OCSLA is amended to establish a scheme for revenue allocation between the Treasury and the state of Alaska. Interior shall include in any leasing program at least three lease sales in each of the Beaufort Planning Area and the Chukchi Planning Area, as well as annual lease sales in the Nearshore Beaufort Sea Planning Area and the Cook Inlet Planning Area. Interior shall establish a grant program for activities to improve the resilience of Indian tribes to the effects of climate change, build Native American communities, and aid the modernization of infrastructure. The bill also establishes the Tribal Resilience Fund.

CLIMATE Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 March 2017

Congressional Leadership In Mitigating Administration Threats to the Earth Act or the CLIMATE Act This bill nullifies the Executive Order entitled "Promoting Energy Independence and Economic Growth" that was released on March 28, 2017. No federal funds may be used to implement or enforce the order. The bill takes effect on March 28, 2017.

CLIMATE SCIENCE: ASSUMPTIONS, POLICY IMPLICATIONS, AND THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD

United States · United States House of Representatives · 29 March 2017

Stop Arctic Ocean Drilling Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 2017

Stop Arctic Ocean Drilling Act of 201 7 This bill declares that it is the policy of the United States that the Arctic Ocean should be managed for the best interests of the people of the United States, including by keeping fossil fuels in the ground to avoid the dangerous impacts of climate change. The Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act is amended to prohibit the Department of the Interior from issuing or renewing a lease or any other authorization for the exploration, development, or production of oil, natural gas, or any other mineral in the Arctic Ocean, including the Beaufort Sea and Chukchi Sea Planning Areas.

Secure and Resilient Water Systems Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 2017

Secure and Resilient Water Systems Act This bill amends the Safe Drinking Water Act by requiring each community water system to submit to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) source water and distribution system vulnerability assessments that identify threats from: industrial activity, pipelines and storage tanks, contaminated sites, agricultural activity, and oil and gas exploration; climate change, extreme weather, drought, and temperature changes; and intentional acts, including intentional contamination, sabotage, and theft of any chemical of interest. Each community water system must also submit to the EPA protection plans that mitigate the threats to source water and distribution systems. The EPA must establish a grant program for increasing the resiliency or adaptability of the community water systems to threats.

National Institute of Standards and Technology Surviving Unprecedented Climate Change Effects with Standard Setting (NIST SUCCESS) Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2017

National Institute of Standards and Technology Surviving Unprecedented Climate Change Effects with Standard Setting (NIST SUCCESS) Act of 2017 This bill requires the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to: (1) identify consistent and authoritative climate information to assist organizations that develop standards, building codes, and voluntary certifications to appropriately anticipate extreme weather and other climate change challenges; (2) identify efforts to set standards, building codes, and voluntary certifications relating to infrastructure and systems that may depend on accurate climate information and projections; and (3) take steps to make the information available to the entities setting those standards, codes, and certifications. NIST must also coordinate federal agencies efforts to set those standards, codes, and certifications.

Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2017

Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Act of 2017 This bill authorizes a number of programs to enhance weather forecasting and alerts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). NOAA's Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research must conduct a program to improve forecasting of weather events and their effects, with a special focus on high impact weather events. The National Weather Service must collect and utilize information to make reliable and timely foundational forecasts of subseasonal and seasonal temperature and precipitation. Subseasonal forecasting is forecasting weather between two weeks and three months and seasonal forecasting is between three months and two years. The bill provides for technology transfers between the National Weather Service and private sector weather companies and universities to improve forecasting. NOAA must complete and operationalize the Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate (a weather satellite program which develops observational techniques using global navigation systems). Additionally, NOAA may contract with the private sector to obtain data for weather forecasting. NOAA must continue its Environmental Information Services Working Group, which advises NOAA on weather research and opportunities to improve communications between weather stakeholders.

Keep America's Waterfronts Working Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 February 2017

Keep America's Waterfronts Working Act This bill amends the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 to direct the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish a Working Waterfront Grant Program. Under the program, NOAA may award grants to coastal states with approved working waterfront plans in place to preserve and expand access to coastal waters for people engaged in fishing, aquaculture, boat building, and other water-dependent businesses. In addition, NOAA is authorized to award grants to coastal states for the purpose of developing or revising working waterfront plans. States are allowed to allocate any grant money received to eligible local governments and other entities. Each state that is awarded a grant must contribute at least 25% of matching funds towards the total cost of the project carried out with the grant, subject to certain exceptions. The Department of the Interior must establish a Working Waterfront Task Force that will be designed to identify and address critical working waterfront needs with respect to cultural and economic importance, climate change and other environmental threats, and market conditions for water-dependent businesses.

Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 15 February 2017

Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments of 2016 This bill amends the Safe Drinking Water Act to revise regulations for drinking water contaminants, including by: requiring the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to determine whether or not to regulate no fewer than 10 contaminants every 3 years (current law requires 5 contaminants every 5 years); revising the process and requirements for setting maximum containment levels in national primary drinking water regulations; directing the EPA to revise national primary drinking water regulations for lead and copper; setting deadlines for the EPA to publish maximum contaminant level goals and promulgate national drinking water regulations for perchlorate, perfluorinated compounds, and microcystin (algal) toxin; establishing grant programs for reducing lead in drinking water in schools; requiring community water systems to assess their vulnerabilities to contamination, including vulnerabilities from climate change or sabotage, and develop plans for addressing those vulnerabilities; establishing the Drinking Water Infrastructure Resiliency and Sustainability Program, under which the EPA may award grants for community water systems to increase their resiliency to those threats; removing a regulatory exemption for hydraulic fracturing; requiring the EPA to develop a strategic plan for assessing and managing the risks of drought to drinking water provided by public water systems; revising requirements for the drinking water state revolving fund (SRF); creating a process for consolidating water systems that repeatedly fail to comply with drinking water standards; requiring the EPA to create an inventory of data about drinking water violations; directing the EPA to revise regulations for consumer confidence reports; establishing research grants for monitoring technology; and requiring the EPA to study the presence of pharmaceuticals and personal care products in drinking water sources. The bill reauthorizes specified programs under the Act, including reauthorizing through FY2022 the SRF.

Wasteful EPA Programs Elimination Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 7 February 2017

Wasteful EPA Programs Elimination Act of 2017 This bill terminates all existing grant programs of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), its National Clean Diesel Campaign, and its environmental justice programs. The EPA may not establish new grant programs. Federal funds may not be used by the EPA: to implement any ozone standard promulgated after this bill's enactment date; to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from mobile sources, or from fossil fuel-fired electric utility generating units; for the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program; for the Global Methane Initiative; for the Climate Resilience Fund; for the Climate Resilience Evaluation Awareness Tool; for the Green Infrastructure Program; for the Climate Ready Water Utilities Initiative; or for climate research at the EPA's Office of Research and Development. The EPA must: (1) discontinue operation and maintenance of its field offices and activities carried out through those offices, and (2) dispose of or lease any underutilized property.

Expressing the commitment of the House of Representatives to continue to support pledges made by the United States in the Paris Agreement.

United States · United States Congress · 2 February 2017

Declares that the House of Representatives commits to: (1) working with U.S. allies that signed the Paris Agreement on climate change, and (2) taking meaningful action to ensure that the President does not issue an executive order to withdraw from such agreement.

Stopping EPA Overreach Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 24 January 2017

Stopping EPA Overreach Act of 2017 This bill amends the Clean Air Act to exclude carbon dioxide, water vapor, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, and sulfur hexafluoride pollution from the scope of that Act. The bill declares that current law does not authorize or require the regulation of climate change or global warming and nullifies certain final rules relating to: (1) greenhouse gas and volatile organic compounds emissions, including methane emissions, from the oil and natural gas sector; and (2) carbon pollution emissions from the utility power sector. Before proposing or finalizing regulations or policies, the Environmental Protection Agency must analyze the net and gross impact of those regulations and policies on employment. Regulations and policies may not take effect if they have a negative impact on employment, unless they are approved by Congress and signed by the President.

No Tax Dollars for the United Nations' Climate Agenda Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 January 2017

No Tax Dollars for the United Nations' Climate Agenda Act This bill prohibits federal agency funds from being used to make assessed or voluntary contributions to or for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change or the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

Recognizing the anniversary of the tragic earthquake in Haiti on January 12, 2010, honoring those who lost their lives in the earthquake and in Hurricane Matthew in October 2016, and expressing continued solidarity with the Haitian people.

United States · United States Congress · 12 January 2017

Honors: (1) those who lost their lives in Haiti due to the earthquake on January 12, 2010, and Hurricane Matthew in October 2016; and (2) the sacrifice of the men and women of the government of Haiti, the U.S. government, the United Nations (U.N.), and the international community for their response to those affected by these calamities. Expresses solidarity with the people of Haiti as they work to prevent malnutrition and hunger, mitigate the effects of climate change, and rebuild their homes, neighborhoods, livelihoods, and country. Reaffirms the commitment of the House of Representatives to support long-term Haitian development and disaster preparedness. Supports the Administration's efforts to: (1) increase food security in Haiti through sustainable agriculture programs; (2) shore up housing initiatives; (3) prevent the spread of cholera and treat persons who contract the disease; (4) provide technical assistance to the Haitian Ministry of Public Health and Population; and (5) improve water, sanitation, and health systems. Urges the President and the international community to: (1) focus assistance on building the capacity of Haiti's public sector and reinforcing the systems it employs to provide basic services, (2) develop and improve communications and participatory mechanisms to more substantially involve Haitian civil society at all stages of post-disaster responses, and (3) give priority to programs that protect vulnerable populations. Urges the President to: (1) make necessary resources available to U.S. and U.N. agencies, nongovernmental organizations, private volunteer organizations, and regional institutions; (2) support U.N. efforts to fully execute the U.N.'s new two-track response to eradicate cholera from Haiti and provide material assistance to those Haitians most directly affected; (3) lead humanitarian and development and disaster risk reduction efforts with the government of Haiti, the Haitian Diaspora, and international actors; (4) maximize responsible local and regional procurement; (5) improve the monitoring of U.S. government-funded aid programs; and (6) work with Haitian authorities and private landowners to prevent evictions of internally displaced person communities.

Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2017

Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Act of 2017 This bill authorizes a number of programs to enhance weather forecasting and alerts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). NOAA's Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research must conduct a program to improve forecasting of weather events and their effects, with a special focus on high impact weather events. The National Weather Service must collect and utilize information to make reliable and timely foundational forecasts of subseasonal and seasonal temperature and precipitation. Subseasonal forecasting is forecasting weather between two weeks and three months and seasonal forecasting is between three months and two years. The bill provides for technology transfers between the National Weather Service and private sector weather companies and universities to improve forecasting. NOAA must complete and operationalize the Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate (a weather satellite program which develops observational techniques using global navigation systems). Additionally, NOAA may contract with the private sector to obtain data for weather forecasting. NOAA must continue its Environmental Information Services Working Group, which advises NOAA on weather research and opportunities to improve communications between weather stakeholders.