Grant Programs to Clean Up Unused Industrial Sites (Senate Bill) (S. 491)
Do you support or oppose this bill?
What is S. 491?
(Updated July 18, 2017)
This bill deals with what's known as "brownfields sites": empty or undeveloped properties that once housed industrial buildings. Since many of these sites require expensive environmental cleanup, companies are reluctant to purchase these areas for new facilities, and local communities may not have the funds to clean them up on their own. This Act lays outs provisions for grants that would help with such cleanup. Details may be found below. The House bill is identical.
Argument in favor
Would create jobs and aid growth in and around states' largest cities. Communities need these incentives to deal with these costly and often toxic properties. Would boost civic pride, public health, and morale.
Argument opposed
These sites have been in their present condition for decades, and do not need to be a priority now. Local communities could put the available grant money toward projects that are more functional and would better communities more fully.
Impact
The bill affects some of the most rundown and/or unusable parts of urban centers, and the areas around them. If enacted, cities and counties containing brownfields sites might see an increase in investment dollars, construction jobs, and hazmat jobs.
Cost of S. 491
A CBO cost estimate is not yet available.
Additional Info
Media:
-sets aside a portion of total grant funds to be used specifically for small communities, rural areas, Indian tribes, and low-income areas with a population less than 15,000.
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