Empowering and Enforcing Environmental Justice Act of 2025

This bill, titled the "Empowering and Enforcing Environmental Justice Act of 2025," establishes an Office of Environmental Justice (OEJ) within the Department of Justice's Environment and Natural Resources Division. The OEJ, led by a Director appointed by the Attorney General, is tasked with developing and updating the Department's environmental justice strategy, coordinating related matters, and promoting public participation in decision-making processes. It defines environmental justice as ensuring the just treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of income, race, or other factors, to protect them from disproportionate adverse environmental and health effects and ensure equitable access to a healthy environment. The OEJ's duties also include counseling State, local, and Tribal governments, providing support for environmental enforcement training, and facilitating working relationships among various stakeholders. The bill establishes a Senior Advisory Council to advise the Assistant Attorney General and recommend policies on environmental justice matters, composed of representatives from various DOJ divisions. This Council will develop guidance for Department personnel on identifying, tracking, and addressing environmental justice issues. Furthermore, the bill mandates the establishment of a grant program within the OEJ to enhance the capacity of State, local, and Tribal governments to enforce environmental laws involving environmental justice matters. These grants, ranging from $50,000 to $1,000,000, can be used for training, hiring staff, and establishing collaborative programs to assist communities with environmental justice concerns. The bill authorizes $50,000,000 annually for this grant program from fiscal years 2026 through 2035.