Brownfields Redevelopment Enhancement Act

The Brownfields Redevelopment Enhancement Act was introduced during the 110th Congress. It would provide cleanup grants to public entities and Indian tribes for environmentally damaged sites. On February 28, the bill passed in the House by a voice vote.

House passes bill
On February 27, 2007, the House passed the bill, sponsored by Rep. Gary Miller (R-Calif.), by a voice vote. If passed by the Senate and signed by President Bush, the bill would provide grants to eligible public entities and Indian tribes for environmental cleanup and economic development of environmentally damaged sites.

The bill noted that the grants could not in any way reduce the financial responsibility of a non-governmental party responsible or potentially responsible for contaminating a piece of property. In addition, the grant could not relieve any party of liability with respect to the responsibility for contaminating the property, including removal and remediation costs. Lastly, the Secretary of HUD (Housing and Urban Development) would be able to develop other criteria governing grant eligibility, including financial leveraging of other grants.