This bill, known as the "Roadside Pollinator Program Amendments Act," aims to strengthen and extend a federal initiative promoting pollinator-friendly practices along highway roadsides and rights-of-way. It significantly increases the program's annual funding from $2 million to $5 million for fiscal years 2026 through 2031, ensuring continued support for these environmental efforts. The legislation also raises the maximum grant amount available for projects from $150,000 to $500,000 , allowing for more substantial and impactful initiatives. Furthermore, the bill broadens the scope of entities eligible to participate in the program, now including 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations alongside existing state departments of transportation and federal land management agencies. It also refines consultation requirements, mandating engagement with the Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and specifying consultation with Federally Recognized Indian Tribes whose land is within 50 miles of a proposed project. These amendments are designed to improve the program's reach, effectiveness, and collaborative potential in supporting pollinator habitats.
This bill, known as the "Roadside Pollinator Program Amendments Act," aims to strengthen and extend a federal initiative promoting pollinator-friendly practices along highway roadsides and rights-of-way. It significantly increases the program's annual funding from $2 million to $5 million for fiscal years 2026 through 2031, ensuring continued support for these environmental efforts. The legislation also raises the maximum grant amount available for projects from $150,000 to $500,000 , allowing for more substantial and impactful initiatives. Furthermore, the bill broadens the scope of entities eligible to participate in the program, now including 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations alongside existing state departments of transportation and federal land management agencies. It also refines consultation requirements, mandating engagement with the Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and specifying consultation with Federally Recognized Indian Tribes whose land is within 50 miles of a proposed project. These amendments are designed to improve the program's reach, effectiveness, and collaborative potential in supporting pollinator habitats.