119th (2025–2027)
H.R. 8238
The RESTART Communities Act of 2026 directs the Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency to work together to help revitalize contaminated sites and create economic opportunities in affected communities. The bill requires these two agencies to establish coordination processes that streamline funding access, provide technical assistance, support workforce development programs, and engage local communities in planning economic recovery efforts at polluted industrial sites and other contaminated properties. The legislation covers activities including internships, job training, development of best practices, and collection of public input before, during, and after environmental cleanup occurs. Within three years of enactment, the agencies must report to Congress on their collaborative achievements, the economic results at revitalized sites, and recommendations for expanding the program further. The bill does not specify dedicated funding amounts but authorizes the agencies to use existing appropriations to carry out these coordination and education activities.