Empowering and Enforcing Environmental Justice Act of 2025

The Empowering and Enforcing Environmental Justice Act of 2025 establishes an Office of Environmental Justice within the Department of Justice's Environment and Natural Resources Division. This Office, led by a Director appointed by the Attorney General, is tasked with developing and updating the Department's environmental justice strategy, coordinating related matters across DOJ components, and promoting public participation in decision-making processes. It also aims to build outreach capacity and competency among DOJ personnel regarding environmental justice concerns. A Senior Advisory Council is also created to advise the Assistant Attorney General and the Office Director on environmental justice policy and initiatives. Comprised of representatives from various DOJ divisions, the Council will develop guidance for Department personnel on identifying, tracking, and addressing environmental justice matters, with regular reviews and updates every three years. The bill further establishes an Environmental Justice Matters Enforcement Grant Program , administered by the new Office. This program will provide competitive grants to State, local, and Tribal governments to enhance their ability to enforce environmental laws in communities disproportionately affected by environmental and human health impacts. Grant funds can be used for: training agencies in prosecution and enforcement, hiring staff for investigation and enforcement, or establishing collaborative programs for technical and legal assistance, outreach, and community engagement. The program authorizes $50 million annually from fiscal years 2026 through 2035, with individual grants ranging from $50,000 to $1,000,000, and a federal share not exceeding 80 percent. This comprehensive approach seeks to ensure just treatment and meaningful involvement for all people in environmental decision-making, particularly low-income, Tribal, and Indigenous populations.