EPA Selects Kansas State University to Receive $4 Million in Grant Funding to Provide Technical Assistance to Tribal Nations and Entities Addressing Brownfields
WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing the selection of Kansas State University to receive $4 million in grant funding over the course of five years to provide technical assistance and increase the capacity of Tribal Nations and entities to build sustainable brownfield programs, establish and enhance their Tribal Response Programs, and conduct and oversee brownfields assessment and cleanup activities.
This grant will enable Kansas State University to provide technical assistance to federally recognized Indian Tribes, Alaska Native Villages, Alaska Native Regional Corporations, Alaska Native Village Corporations, the Metlakatla Indian community, and Intertribal Consortia upon request.
“Under this new grant, EPA re-affirms its commitment to supporting Tribal Nations and entities addressing brownfields,” said Cliff Villa, EPA’s Deputy Assistant Administrator for the Office of Land and Emergency Management. “EPA is excited to continue working with Tribal entities to clean up and revitalize brownfield sites across the country."
Recognizing that each Tribe is an independent, sovereign nation, responsible for establishing environmental standards, policy, and managing environmental programs, EPA acknowledges that each Tribal Nation and entity faces unique challenges, many of which stem from similar environmental legacies. This cooperative agreement grant will support Tribal communities in their efforts to tackle the challenges of assessing, cleaning up and preparing brownfield sites for redevelopment.
Kansas State University will create deliverables that align with Tribal priorities, capacity, and goals, to address the following subject areas:
• Brownfields Finance and Planning Strategies for Tribal Nations and Entities.
• Science and Technology Relating to Brownfields Assessment, Remediation, and Site Preparation for Safe and Resilient Reuse.
• Assist Tribal Nations and Entities in Understanding and Building Tribal Response Programs.
• Facilitate Storytelling and Promote Collaboration About Brownfields Reuse.
• Integrated Approaches to Brownfields Cleanup and Reuse.
Visit EPA’s Brownfields Program website for more information.
This grant will enable Kansas State University to provide technical assistance to federally recognized Indian Tribes, Alaska Native Villages, Alaska Native Regional Corporations, Alaska Native Village Corporations, the Metlakatla Indian community, and Intertribal Consortia upon request.
“Under this new grant, EPA re-affirms its commitment to supporting Tribal Nations and entities addressing brownfields,” said Cliff Villa, EPA’s Deputy Assistant Administrator for the Office of Land and Emergency Management. “EPA is excited to continue working with Tribal entities to clean up and revitalize brownfield sites across the country."
Recognizing that each Tribe is an independent, sovereign nation, responsible for establishing environmental standards, policy, and managing environmental programs, EPA acknowledges that each Tribal Nation and entity faces unique challenges, many of which stem from similar environmental legacies. This cooperative agreement grant will support Tribal communities in their efforts to tackle the challenges of assessing, cleaning up and preparing brownfield sites for redevelopment.
Kansas State University will create deliverables that align with Tribal priorities, capacity, and goals, to address the following subject areas:
• Brownfields Finance and Planning Strategies for Tribal Nations and Entities.
• Science and Technology Relating to Brownfields Assessment, Remediation, and Site Preparation for Safe and Resilient Reuse.
• Assist Tribal Nations and Entities in Understanding and Building Tribal Response Programs.
• Facilitate Storytelling and Promote Collaboration About Brownfields Reuse.
• Integrated Approaches to Brownfields Cleanup and Reuse.
Visit EPA’s Brownfields Program website for more information.
Navajo Tribal Utility Authority agrees to $100 Million in Wastewater Treatment Improvements
FLAGSTAFF – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a settlement with the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority (NTUA) to improve wastewater treatment at its Chinle, Kayenta, and Tuba City facilities in Arizona. NTUA has agreed to a Partial Consent Decree that requires wastewater treatment upgrades that will total approximately $100 million and aims to improve compliance with the facilities’ Clean Water Act permits. These upgrades will impact approximately 20,000 individuals across four communities within Navajo Nation.
Based on findings from EPA inspections and reports submitted by NTUA, the U.S. states in their complaint that NTUA violated its Clean Water Act permits by regularly discharging wastewater that had not been treated to the required permit standards, and by failing to properly operate and maintain the facilities’ sewer systems to prevent sewage spills.
The Partial Consent Decree requires NTUA to improve the performance of its existing treatment plants in the short term, and to construct new treatment plants over the longer term. NTUA will seek to relocate the new Tuba City facility from its current footprint to mitigate risks associated with the Moenkopi Wash’s continued erosion towards the facility and to decrease the chance of a catastrophic release of sewage. In addition, NTUA must improve its operation and maintenance of the facilities and study its sewer system piping to identify all defects and plan for their repair. The U.S. and NTUA will negotiate the terms of the sewer system repair plan at a later date, and any agreement will be captured in a subsequent, Final Consent Decree. Today’s settlement also aims to ensure the affected communities have a voice in the improvement process by requiring NTUA to seek public comments on various aspects of its work plans.
“The Navajo Tribal Utility Authority failed in its responsibility to address the untreated sewage being discharged from three of their wastewater facilities,” said David M. Uhlmann, EPA Assistant Administrator for the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “The work under this partial settlement will result in cleaner and healthier water for these tribal communities within the Navajo Nation.”
“Today’s action shows our commitment to prioritize public health and environmental protection for communities throughout the nation, including members of tribal communities often disproportionately burdened by pollution,” said Amy Miller, EPA’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division Director for the country’s Pacific Southwest region. “By partnering with tribal governments to enforce federal and tribal pollution laws, we can protect public health and ensure communities have access to clean waterways.”
Improving the quality of water NTUA discharges from its facilities and minimizing sewage spills will directly benefit the environment and protect public health. Excess pollutants in treated wastewater can harm fish and other aquatic life, create algal blooms, and prevent surrounding communities from safely using the water. Similarly, spills and overflows from sewer pipes can pose a public health risk by potentially exposing people to untreated sewage, which may contain viruses, bacteria, or parasites that can make people ill.
To support its wastewater treatment programs, NTUA receives grant funding from various federal agencies—including the EPA, the Indian Health Service, and the Department of Agriculture—and from recent federal appropriations including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the American Rescue Plan Act. Federal grants from these and other sources are projected to cover the majority of the $100 million cost expected under the Partial Consent Decree.
This matter is being handled by the U.S. Department of Justice, in conjunction with the EPA. The Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency actively participated in settlement negotiations leading to the Partial Consent Decree.
The proposed decree is lodged in the U.S. District Court of Arizona. The settlement is subject to a public comment period and final court approval. The Partial Consent Decree will be available for viewing on the Justice Department’s website at: www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.
Learn more about EPA enforcement requirements and wastewater management under the Clean Water Act on EPA’s Water Enforcement webpage.
For more information on reporting possible violations of environmental laws and regulations, visit EPA’s enforcement reporting website.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on X.
Based on findings from EPA inspections and reports submitted by NTUA, the U.S. states in their complaint that NTUA violated its Clean Water Act permits by regularly discharging wastewater that had not been treated to the required permit standards, and by failing to properly operate and maintain the facilities’ sewer systems to prevent sewage spills.
The Partial Consent Decree requires NTUA to improve the performance of its existing treatment plants in the short term, and to construct new treatment plants over the longer term. NTUA will seek to relocate the new Tuba City facility from its current footprint to mitigate risks associated with the Moenkopi Wash’s continued erosion towards the facility and to decrease the chance of a catastrophic release of sewage. In addition, NTUA must improve its operation and maintenance of the facilities and study its sewer system piping to identify all defects and plan for their repair. The U.S. and NTUA will negotiate the terms of the sewer system repair plan at a later date, and any agreement will be captured in a subsequent, Final Consent Decree. Today’s settlement also aims to ensure the affected communities have a voice in the improvement process by requiring NTUA to seek public comments on various aspects of its work plans.
“The Navajo Tribal Utility Authority failed in its responsibility to address the untreated sewage being discharged from three of their wastewater facilities,” said David M. Uhlmann, EPA Assistant Administrator for the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “The work under this partial settlement will result in cleaner and healthier water for these tribal communities within the Navajo Nation.”
“Today’s action shows our commitment to prioritize public health and environmental protection for communities throughout the nation, including members of tribal communities often disproportionately burdened by pollution,” said Amy Miller, EPA’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division Director for the country’s Pacific Southwest region. “By partnering with tribal governments to enforce federal and tribal pollution laws, we can protect public health and ensure communities have access to clean waterways.”
Improving the quality of water NTUA discharges from its facilities and minimizing sewage spills will directly benefit the environment and protect public health. Excess pollutants in treated wastewater can harm fish and other aquatic life, create algal blooms, and prevent surrounding communities from safely using the water. Similarly, spills and overflows from sewer pipes can pose a public health risk by potentially exposing people to untreated sewage, which may contain viruses, bacteria, or parasites that can make people ill.
To support its wastewater treatment programs, NTUA receives grant funding from various federal agencies—including the EPA, the Indian Health Service, and the Department of Agriculture—and from recent federal appropriations including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the American Rescue Plan Act. Federal grants from these and other sources are projected to cover the majority of the $100 million cost expected under the Partial Consent Decree.
This matter is being handled by the U.S. Department of Justice, in conjunction with the EPA. The Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency actively participated in settlement negotiations leading to the Partial Consent Decree.
The proposed decree is lodged in the U.S. District Court of Arizona. The settlement is subject to a public comment period and final court approval. The Partial Consent Decree will be available for viewing on the Justice Department’s website at: www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.
Learn more about EPA enforcement requirements and wastewater management under the Clean Water Act on EPA’s Water Enforcement webpage.
For more information on reporting possible violations of environmental laws and regulations, visit EPA’s enforcement reporting website.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on X.
Navajo Tribal Utility Authority agrees to $100 Million in Wastewater Treatment Improvements
WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a settlement with the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority (NTUA) to improve wastewater treatment at its Chinle, Kayenta, and Tuba City facilities in Arizona. NTUA has agreed to a Partial Consent Decree that requires wastewater treatment upgrades that will total approximately $100 million and aims to improve compliance with the facilities’ Clean Water Act permits. These upgrades will impact approximately 20,000 individuals across four communities within Navajo Nation.
Based on findings from EPA inspections and reports submitted by NTUA, the U.S. states in their complaint that NTUA violated its Clean Water Act permits by regularly discharging wastewater that had not been treated to the required permit standards, and by failing to properly operate and maintain the facilities’ sewer systems to prevent sewage spills.
The Partial Consent Decree requires NTUA to improve the performance of its existing treatment plants in the short term, and to construct new treatment plants over the longer term. NTUA will seek to relocate the new Tuba City facility from its current footprint to mitigate risks associated with the Moenkopi Wash’s continued erosion towards the facility and to decrease the chance of a catastrophic release of sewage. In addition, NTUA must improve its operation and maintenance of the facilities and study its sewer system piping to identify all defects and plan for their repair. The U.S. and NTUA will negotiate the terms of the sewer system repair plan at a later date, and any agreement will be captured in a subsequent, Final Consent Decree. Today’s settlement also aims to ensure the affected communities have a voice in the improvement process by requiring NTUA to seek public comments on various aspects of its work plans.
“The Navajo Tribal Utility Authority unlawfully discharged untreated sewage from three of its wastewater facilities,” said David M. Uhlmann, EPA Assistant Administrator for the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “This partial settlement will result in cleaner and healthier water for tribal communities within the Navajo Nation. They deserve nothing less.”
“Today’s action shows our commitment to prioritize public health and environmental protection for communities throughout the nation, including members of tribal communities often disproportionately burdened by pollution,” said Amy Miller, EPA’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division Director for the country’s Pacific Southwest region. “By partnering with tribal governments to enforce federal and tribal pollution laws, we can protect public health and ensure communities have access to clean waterways.”
Improving the quality of water NTUA discharges from its facilities and minimizing sewage spills will directly benefit the environment and protect public health. Excess pollutants in treated wastewater can harm fish and other aquatic life, create algal blooms, and prevent surrounding communities from safely using the water. Similarly, spills and overflows from sewer pipes can pose a public health risk by potentially exposing people to untreated sewage, which may contain viruses, bacteria, or parasites that can make people ill.
To support its wastewater treatment programs, NTUA receives grant funding from various federal agencies—including the EPA, the Indian Health Service, and the Department of Agriculture—and from recent federal appropriations including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the American Rescue Plan Act. Federal grants from these and other sources are projected to cover the majority of the $100 million cost expected under the Partial Consent Decree.
This matter is being handled by the U.S. Department of Justice, in conjunction with the EPA. The Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency actively participated in settlement negotiations leading to the Partial Consent Decree.
The proposed decree is lodged in the U.S. District Court of Arizona. The settlement is subject to a public comment period and final court approval. The Partial Consent Decree will be available for viewing on the Justice Department’s website at: www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.
Learn more about EPA enforcement requirements and wastewater management under the Clean Water Act on EPA’s Water Enforcement webpage.
For more information on reporting possible violations of environmental laws and regulations, visit EPA’s enforcement reporting website.
Based on findings from EPA inspections and reports submitted by NTUA, the U.S. states in their complaint that NTUA violated its Clean Water Act permits by regularly discharging wastewater that had not been treated to the required permit standards, and by failing to properly operate and maintain the facilities’ sewer systems to prevent sewage spills.
The Partial Consent Decree requires NTUA to improve the performance of its existing treatment plants in the short term, and to construct new treatment plants over the longer term. NTUA will seek to relocate the new Tuba City facility from its current footprint to mitigate risks associated with the Moenkopi Wash’s continued erosion towards the facility and to decrease the chance of a catastrophic release of sewage. In addition, NTUA must improve its operation and maintenance of the facilities and study its sewer system piping to identify all defects and plan for their repair. The U.S. and NTUA will negotiate the terms of the sewer system repair plan at a later date, and any agreement will be captured in a subsequent, Final Consent Decree. Today’s settlement also aims to ensure the affected communities have a voice in the improvement process by requiring NTUA to seek public comments on various aspects of its work plans.
“The Navajo Tribal Utility Authority unlawfully discharged untreated sewage from three of its wastewater facilities,” said David M. Uhlmann, EPA Assistant Administrator for the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “This partial settlement will result in cleaner and healthier water for tribal communities within the Navajo Nation. They deserve nothing less.”
“Today’s action shows our commitment to prioritize public health and environmental protection for communities throughout the nation, including members of tribal communities often disproportionately burdened by pollution,” said Amy Miller, EPA’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division Director for the country’s Pacific Southwest region. “By partnering with tribal governments to enforce federal and tribal pollution laws, we can protect public health and ensure communities have access to clean waterways.”
Improving the quality of water NTUA discharges from its facilities and minimizing sewage spills will directly benefit the environment and protect public health. Excess pollutants in treated wastewater can harm fish and other aquatic life, create algal blooms, and prevent surrounding communities from safely using the water. Similarly, spills and overflows from sewer pipes can pose a public health risk by potentially exposing people to untreated sewage, which may contain viruses, bacteria, or parasites that can make people ill.
To support its wastewater treatment programs, NTUA receives grant funding from various federal agencies—including the EPA, the Indian Health Service, and the Department of Agriculture—and from recent federal appropriations including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the American Rescue Plan Act. Federal grants from these and other sources are projected to cover the majority of the $100 million cost expected under the Partial Consent Decree.
This matter is being handled by the U.S. Department of Justice, in conjunction with the EPA. The Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency actively participated in settlement negotiations leading to the Partial Consent Decree.
The proposed decree is lodged in the U.S. District Court of Arizona. The settlement is subject to a public comment period and final court approval. The Partial Consent Decree will be available for viewing on the Justice Department’s website at: www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.
Learn more about EPA enforcement requirements and wastewater management under the Clean Water Act on EPA’s Water Enforcement webpage.
For more information on reporting possible violations of environmental laws and regulations, visit EPA’s enforcement reporting website.
EPA Selects Kansas State University to Receive $4M in Grant Funding to Provide Technical Assistance to Tribal Nations and Entities Addressing Brownfields
LENEXA, KAN. (JAN. 10, 2024) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing the selection of Kansas State University (KSU) to receive $4 million in grant funding over the course of five years to provide technical assistance and increase the capacity of tribal nations and entities to build sustainable brownfield programs; establish and enhance their Tribal Response Programs; and conduct and oversee brownfield assessment and cleanup activities.
This grant will enable KSU to provide technical assistance to federally recognized Indian Tribes, Alaska Native Villages, Alaska Native Regional Corporations, Alaska Native Village Corporations, the Metlakatla Indian community, and Intertribal Consortia upon request.
“Under this new grant, EPA reaffirms its commitment to supporting tribal nations and entities addressing brownfields,” said Cliff Villa, deputy assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Land and Emergency Management. “EPA is excited to continue working with tribal entities to clean up and revitalize brownfield sites across the country."
Recognizing that each tribe is an independent sovereign nation responsible for establishing environmental standards, policy, and managing environmental programs, EPA acknowledges that each tribal nation and entity faces unique challenges, many of which stem from similar environmental legacies. This cooperative agreement grant will support tribal communities in their efforts to tackle the challenges of assessing, cleaning up, and preparing brownfield sites for redevelopment.
KSU will create deliverables that align with tribal priorities, capacity, and goals, to address the following subject areas:
Brownfields Finance and Planning Strategies for Tribal Nations and Entities
Science and Technology Relating to Brownfields Assessment, Remediation, and Site Preparation for Safe and Resilient Reuse
Assist Tribal Nations and Entities in Understanding and Building Tribal Response Programs
Facilitate Storytelling and Promote Collaboration About Brownfields Reuse
Integrated Approaches to Brownfields Cleanup and Reuse
Learn more about EPA Brownfields funding.
# # #
Learn more about EPA Region 7
View all Region 7 news releases
Connect with EPA Region 7 on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter: @EPARegion7
This grant will enable KSU to provide technical assistance to federally recognized Indian Tribes, Alaska Native Villages, Alaska Native Regional Corporations, Alaska Native Village Corporations, the Metlakatla Indian community, and Intertribal Consortia upon request.
“Under this new grant, EPA reaffirms its commitment to supporting tribal nations and entities addressing brownfields,” said Cliff Villa, deputy assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Land and Emergency Management. “EPA is excited to continue working with tribal entities to clean up and revitalize brownfield sites across the country."
Recognizing that each tribe is an independent sovereign nation responsible for establishing environmental standards, policy, and managing environmental programs, EPA acknowledges that each tribal nation and entity faces unique challenges, many of which stem from similar environmental legacies. This cooperative agreement grant will support tribal communities in their efforts to tackle the challenges of assessing, cleaning up, and preparing brownfield sites for redevelopment.
KSU will create deliverables that align with tribal priorities, capacity, and goals, to address the following subject areas:
Brownfields Finance and Planning Strategies for Tribal Nations and Entities
Science and Technology Relating to Brownfields Assessment, Remediation, and Site Preparation for Safe and Resilient Reuse
Assist Tribal Nations and Entities in Understanding and Building Tribal Response Programs
Facilitate Storytelling and Promote Collaboration About Brownfields Reuse
Integrated Approaches to Brownfields Cleanup and Reuse
Learn more about EPA Brownfields funding.
# # #
Learn more about EPA Region 7
View all Region 7 news releases
Connect with EPA Region 7 on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter: @EPARegion7
Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox to step down at EPA
WASHINGTON — After serving three years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, today Assistant Administrator for the Office of Water Radhika Fox announced that she will depart the agency at the end of February 2024.
Appointed by President Biden and confirmed with robust bipartisan support by the U.S. Senate, Assistant Administrator Fox spearheaded EPA’s successful agenda to protect American communities from water pollution while embedding equity and environmental justice across its Office of Water programs. Fox has led EPA’s effort to implement billions of dollars of funding secured by President Biden under his Investing in America agenda to tackle water pollution from lead and PFAS, while advancing regulations to ensure every American has access to clean and safe water and can enjoy America’s natural resources.
Assistant Administrator Fox is the first woman of color and the first person of Asian American descent to lead EPA’s Office of Water.
“Radhika’s impact on protecting clean water for all will be felt across this country for decades to come,” said Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Radhika’s vision, strategy, and tenacity to deliver on President Biden’s ambitious agenda has been nothing short of transformational. Radhika is the first woman of color to lead the Office of Water, a shining example of President Biden’s commitment to build an administration that reflects the diversity of the nation.”
“It has been the greatest honor of my career to lead the Office of Water under the incredible leadership of Administrator Regan and with a talented team of career leaders here in Washington and across our 10 EPA regions,” said Assistant Administrator Radhika Fox. “I am proud of the work we’ve accomplished to ensure that every American can rely on clean and safe water, which provides a foundation for healthy communities and thriving economies. The partnerships we’ve established, the science-based regulations we’ve issued, and the federal funding we’ve invested will benefit generations to come.”
At EPA, Assistant Administrator Fox was the driving force in implementation of the water pillar of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law — which includes $50 billion in funding for water projects — the single largest federal investment in the water sector. Under Fox’s leadership, EPA has provided over $13 billion to states, territories, Tribes, and local communities, supporting over 2,600 water infrastructure projects. The full suite of water funding and financing programs have been a powerhouse delivering for the American people — over $45 billion in water funding has been deployed during her tenure.
Other highlights of Assistant Administrator Fox’s tenure include:
Recognizing that the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law presents a historic opportunity to change the odds for the millions of vulnerable Americans living without clean and safe water, Fox designed and launched WaterTA. This landmark initiative is investing $500 million to support underserved communities across America to build their technical, financial, and managerial capacity to secure federal infrastructure funding. By the end of 2024 alone, EPA will support 1,500 underserved communities through newly designed technical assistance initiatives like Get The Lead Out, Closing the Wastewater Access Gap, Environmental Finance Centers, and related initiatives.
Fox led a robust regulatory agenda to restore and advance critical public health protections, including the first national standard for PFAS in drinking water, the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements, Waters of the United States, the Clean Water Act Section 401 Water Quality Certification Rule, and more.
Fox served as co-chair of the PFAS Executive Council and led the development of the Agency’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap — laying out a whole-of-agency approach to addressing PFAS. The roadmap sets timelines by which EPA plans to take specific actions and commits to bolder new policies to safeguard public health, protect the environment, and hold polluters accountable.
Fox has also been a fierce champion for protecting and restoring oceans and coastal ecosystems. She spearheaded the Final Determination under the Clean Water Act to help protect Bristol Bay, home to 25 Alaska Native villages and the most productive wild salmon ecosystem in the world, with an economic value estimated at more than $2.2 billion and resulting in 15,000 jobs annually.
As part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, Fox also supercharged EPA’s Geographic and National Estuary Programs — overseeing $2 billion in investments in treasured water bodies from the Chesapeake Bay, to the Great Lakes, to Puget sound.
President Biden committed to strengthening the nation-to-nation relationship with Tribal Nations and upholding the United States’ federal trust responsibility in Indian country. Fox has been a driving force to deliver on this commitment — creating the first ever Tribal Water Action Plan for the EPA, and delivering hundreds of millions in dedicated water funding to Indian Country and Alaska Native Villages during her tenure.
Learn more information about EPA’s Office of Water.
Appointed by President Biden and confirmed with robust bipartisan support by the U.S. Senate, Assistant Administrator Fox spearheaded EPA’s successful agenda to protect American communities from water pollution while embedding equity and environmental justice across its Office of Water programs. Fox has led EPA’s effort to implement billions of dollars of funding secured by President Biden under his Investing in America agenda to tackle water pollution from lead and PFAS, while advancing regulations to ensure every American has access to clean and safe water and can enjoy America’s natural resources.
Assistant Administrator Fox is the first woman of color and the first person of Asian American descent to lead EPA’s Office of Water.
“Radhika’s impact on protecting clean water for all will be felt across this country for decades to come,” said Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Radhika’s vision, strategy, and tenacity to deliver on President Biden’s ambitious agenda has been nothing short of transformational. Radhika is the first woman of color to lead the Office of Water, a shining example of President Biden’s commitment to build an administration that reflects the diversity of the nation.”
“It has been the greatest honor of my career to lead the Office of Water under the incredible leadership of Administrator Regan and with a talented team of career leaders here in Washington and across our 10 EPA regions,” said Assistant Administrator Radhika Fox. “I am proud of the work we’ve accomplished to ensure that every American can rely on clean and safe water, which provides a foundation for healthy communities and thriving economies. The partnerships we’ve established, the science-based regulations we’ve issued, and the federal funding we’ve invested will benefit generations to come.”
At EPA, Assistant Administrator Fox was the driving force in implementation of the water pillar of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law — which includes $50 billion in funding for water projects — the single largest federal investment in the water sector. Under Fox’s leadership, EPA has provided over $13 billion to states, territories, Tribes, and local communities, supporting over 2,600 water infrastructure projects. The full suite of water funding and financing programs have been a powerhouse delivering for the American people — over $45 billion in water funding has been deployed during her tenure.
Other highlights of Assistant Administrator Fox’s tenure include:
Recognizing that the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law presents a historic opportunity to change the odds for the millions of vulnerable Americans living without clean and safe water, Fox designed and launched WaterTA. This landmark initiative is investing $500 million to support underserved communities across America to build their technical, financial, and managerial capacity to secure federal infrastructure funding. By the end of 2024 alone, EPA will support 1,500 underserved communities through newly designed technical assistance initiatives like Get The Lead Out, Closing the Wastewater Access Gap, Environmental Finance Centers, and related initiatives.
Fox led a robust regulatory agenda to restore and advance critical public health protections, including the first national standard for PFAS in drinking water, the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements, Waters of the United States, the Clean Water Act Section 401 Water Quality Certification Rule, and more.
Fox served as co-chair of the PFAS Executive Council and led the development of the Agency’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap — laying out a whole-of-agency approach to addressing PFAS. The roadmap sets timelines by which EPA plans to take specific actions and commits to bolder new policies to safeguard public health, protect the environment, and hold polluters accountable.
Fox has also been a fierce champion for protecting and restoring oceans and coastal ecosystems. She spearheaded the Final Determination under the Clean Water Act to help protect Bristol Bay, home to 25 Alaska Native villages and the most productive wild salmon ecosystem in the world, with an economic value estimated at more than $2.2 billion and resulting in 15,000 jobs annually.
As part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, Fox also supercharged EPA’s Geographic and National Estuary Programs — overseeing $2 billion in investments in treasured water bodies from the Chesapeake Bay, to the Great Lakes, to Puget sound.
President Biden committed to strengthening the nation-to-nation relationship with Tribal Nations and upholding the United States’ federal trust responsibility in Indian country. Fox has been a driving force to deliver on this commitment — creating the first ever Tribal Water Action Plan for the EPA, and delivering hundreds of millions in dedicated water funding to Indian Country and Alaska Native Villages during her tenure.
Learn more information about EPA’s Office of Water.
Biden-Harris Administration Announces at Least $9,079,605 in Awards for Clean School Buses Across Oklahoma as Part of Investing in America Agenda
DALLAS, TEXAS (January 10, 2024) – As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting children and improving air quality, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that Highland CSB 1 LLC and Lawton Independent School District will receive at least $9,079,605 through EPA’s first Clean School Bus Program’s Grants Competition. The awards, which are made possible through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will help the selectees purchase clean school buses in two school districts across Oklahoma. By accelerating the transition to low- and zero-emission vehicles, these awards will improve air quality for children and their families and advance environmental justice, all while boosting the economy and creating good-paying jobs.
The Lawton Independent School District is receiving $9,079,605 to purchase 23 clean school buses.
In addition, Oklahoma is expected receive additional funding through third party selectees that are working with multiple states.
Highland CSB 1, LLC is receiving $31,150,000 to purchase 91 clean school buses in Texas Oklahoma and Louisiana.
“Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I’ve sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time.”
“This announcement reflects this Administration’s commitment to protecting children’s health and improving air quality. Replacing diesel buses with clean-burning alternatives will help improve the school day and reduce emissions that impact climate change,” said Region 6 Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “This is especially good news for children in underserved areas who are often exposed to more air pollution and health risks such as asthma. Congratulations to our selectees for their partnership in protecting children and the environment.”
The Clean School Bus Program is having far-reaching effects across school districts and their surrounding communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity’s top tier Oklahoma applicants to receive this historic investment in their community.
Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program Website.
Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. As grants are finalized, total amounts awarded and number of buses may be adjusted. EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
EPA’s $5 billion Clean School Bus program created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replaces existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today’s Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional rounds of funding.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024. EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees will need to submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future rounds of funding, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was created under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds clean school buses, including electric buses, compressed natural gas (CNG) and propane buses that produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines, which disproportionately impact communities of color and Tribal communities, is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Replacing these older diesel engines with zero- or low-emission buses will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets, by replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed resources for schools.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and large number of high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, Tribal nations, and territories, EPA has nearly doubled the amount of funding that will be awarded nationally today to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, advance environmental justice, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities make up approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.
For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the full list of Clean School Bus grantees here.
Connect with the Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 on Facebook, Twitter, or visit our homepage.
The Lawton Independent School District is receiving $9,079,605 to purchase 23 clean school buses.
In addition, Oklahoma is expected receive additional funding through third party selectees that are working with multiple states.
Highland CSB 1, LLC is receiving $31,150,000 to purchase 91 clean school buses in Texas Oklahoma and Louisiana.
“Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I’ve sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time.”
“This announcement reflects this Administration’s commitment to protecting children’s health and improving air quality. Replacing diesel buses with clean-burning alternatives will help improve the school day and reduce emissions that impact climate change,” said Region 6 Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “This is especially good news for children in underserved areas who are often exposed to more air pollution and health risks such as asthma. Congratulations to our selectees for their partnership in protecting children and the environment.”
The Clean School Bus Program is having far-reaching effects across school districts and their surrounding communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity’s top tier Oklahoma applicants to receive this historic investment in their community.
Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program Website.
Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. As grants are finalized, total amounts awarded and number of buses may be adjusted. EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
EPA’s $5 billion Clean School Bus program created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replaces existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today’s Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional rounds of funding.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024. EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees will need to submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future rounds of funding, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was created under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds clean school buses, including electric buses, compressed natural gas (CNG) and propane buses that produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines, which disproportionately impact communities of color and Tribal communities, is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Replacing these older diesel engines with zero- or low-emission buses will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets, by replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed resources for schools.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and large number of high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, Tribal nations, and territories, EPA has nearly doubled the amount of funding that will be awarded nationally today to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, advance environmental justice, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities make up approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.
For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the full list of Clean School Bus grantees here.
Connect with the Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 on Facebook, Twitter, or visit our homepage.
Biden-Harris Administration Announces at Least $15,719,907 in Awards for Clean School Buses Across Louisiana as Part of Investing in America Agenda
DALLAS, TEXAS (January 10, 2024) – As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting children and improving air quality, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that First Student Inc, Highland CSB 1 LLC, and Lion Electric Co USA will receive at least $15,719,907 through EPA’s first Clean School Bus Program’s Grants Competition. The awards, which are made possible through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will help the selectees purchase clean school buses in three school districts across Louisiana. By accelerating the transition to low- and zero-emission vehicles, these awards will improve air quality for children and their families and advance environmental justice, all while boosting the economy and creating good-paying jobs.
First Student Inc. is receiving $15,719,907 to purchase 40 clean school buses.
In addition, Louisiana is expected receive additional funding through third party selectees that are working with multiple states.
Highland CSB 1, LLC is receiving $31,150,000 to purchase 91 clean school buses in the states of Texas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma.
Lion Electric Co USA, Inc is receiving $38,146,757 to purchase 97 clean school buses in Texas and Louisiana.
“Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I’ve sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time.”
“This announcement reflects this Administration’s commitment to protecting children’s health and improving air quality. Replacing diesel buses with clean-burning alternatives will help improve the school day and reduce emissions that impact climate change,” said Region 6 Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “This is especially good news for children in underserved areas who are often exposed to more air pollution and health risks such as asthma. Congratulations to our selectees for their partnership in protecting children and the environment.”
“I’m excited to announce these grants which will put cleaner buses on the road in LA-02. This funding means more electric buses and fewer carbon emissions, improving air quality for students and their communities. Investments like these are why I voted for and helped craft the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Let’s get moving, Louisiana!” said Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02).
The Clean School Bus Program is having far-reaching effects across school districts and their surrounding communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity’s top tier Louisiana applicants to receive this historic investment in their community.
Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program Website.Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. As grants are finalized, total amounts awarded and number of buses may be adjusted. EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
EPA’s $5 billion Clean School Bus program created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replaces existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today’s Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional rounds of funding.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024. EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees will need to submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future rounds of funding, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was created under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds clean school buses, including electric buses, compressed natural gas (CNG) and propane buses that produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines, which disproportionately impact communities of color and Tribal communities, is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Replacing these older diesel engines with zero- or low-emission buses will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets, by replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed resources for schools.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and large number of high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, Tribal nations, and territories, EPA has nearly doubled the amount of funding that will be awarded nationally to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, advance environmental justice, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities make up approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.
For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the full list of Clean School Bus grantees here.
Connect with the Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 on Facebook, Twitter, or visit our homepage.
First Student Inc. is receiving $15,719,907 to purchase 40 clean school buses.
In addition, Louisiana is expected receive additional funding through third party selectees that are working with multiple states.
Highland CSB 1, LLC is receiving $31,150,000 to purchase 91 clean school buses in the states of Texas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma.
Lion Electric Co USA, Inc is receiving $38,146,757 to purchase 97 clean school buses in Texas and Louisiana.
“Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I’ve sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time.”
“This announcement reflects this Administration’s commitment to protecting children’s health and improving air quality. Replacing diesel buses with clean-burning alternatives will help improve the school day and reduce emissions that impact climate change,” said Region 6 Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “This is especially good news for children in underserved areas who are often exposed to more air pollution and health risks such as asthma. Congratulations to our selectees for their partnership in protecting children and the environment.”
“I’m excited to announce these grants which will put cleaner buses on the road in LA-02. This funding means more electric buses and fewer carbon emissions, improving air quality for students and their communities. Investments like these are why I voted for and helped craft the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Let’s get moving, Louisiana!” said Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02).
The Clean School Bus Program is having far-reaching effects across school districts and their surrounding communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity’s top tier Louisiana applicants to receive this historic investment in their community.
Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program Website.Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. As grants are finalized, total amounts awarded and number of buses may be adjusted. EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
EPA’s $5 billion Clean School Bus program created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replaces existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today’s Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional rounds of funding.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024. EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees will need to submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future rounds of funding, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was created under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds clean school buses, including electric buses, compressed natural gas (CNG) and propane buses that produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines, which disproportionately impact communities of color and Tribal communities, is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Replacing these older diesel engines with zero- or low-emission buses will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets, by replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed resources for schools.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and large number of high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, Tribal nations, and territories, EPA has nearly doubled the amount of funding that will be awarded nationally to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, advance environmental justice, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities make up approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.
For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the full list of Clean School Bus grantees here.
Connect with the Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 on Facebook, Twitter, or visit our homepage.
Nearly 21 Million Children Expected to Receive New Grocery Benefit This Summer
WASHINGTON, Jan. 10, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced that 35 states, all five U.S. territories, and four Tribes plan to be the first to launch the new, permanent summer grocery benefits program for children – known as Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer – in summer 2024. They include: