The bill amends the Municipal Solid Waste-to-Energy Program by transferring the administrative responsibility from the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to the Department of Environmental Protection. It revises the eligibility criteria for municipal solid waste-to-energy facilities to receive financial assistance and incentive grants. Specifically, the bill introduces new requirements for air quality assessments and environmental justice evaluations before grant funding can be awarded. Beginning July 1, 2025, the Office of Air Monitoring must measure air quality and particulate matter in environmental justice zones near the facilities, and funding will be contingent on meeting the standards set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Additionally, starting July 1, 2026, the Department of Environmental Protection will not provide grant funding for new solid waste-to-energy facilities until an environmental justice evaluation confirms that the facility will have a negligible impact on low-income and historically marginalized communities. The bill also outlines the process for applying for financial assistance and incentive grants, including requirements for matching funds and compliance with existing environmental regulations. The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services will assist in determining grant eligibility and ensuring the long-term operation of funded facilities. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.