RESTART Communities Act of 2026

This legislation mandates enhanced collaboration between the Economic Development Administration (EDA) , under the Secretary of Commerce, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) . The primary goal is to promote the economic revitalization of environmentally contaminated sites, encompassing efforts before, during, and after environmental remediation. This interagency coordination may be formalized through a memorandum of understanding or other appropriate agreement to ensure seamless execution of activities. The bill outlines several key interagency activities, including establishing processes for timely action and providing site stakeholders with access to technical assistance resources. It also aims to support access to relevant federal grant and loan programs for economic revitalization and disseminate best practices for developing plans that prioritize community engagement and environmental justice. Furthermore, the agencies are directed to support public input, data collection, and data sharing to monitor the success of these revitalization efforts. A crucial aspect of this collaboration involves supporting education, training, and workforce development activities for site stakeholders. This includes creating internships, fellowships, and developing postsecondary curricula related to environmental remediation and economic revitalization. The agencies are authorized to consult with other governmental entities at various levels, and within three years, they must submit a report to Congress detailing their activities, achievements, and potential opportunities for expansion.