This bill amends the Administrative Code of 1929 to establish the Office of Environmental Justice within the Department of Environmental Protection in Pennsylvania. The new section outlines the Commonwealth's commitment to promoting environmental justice by ensuring that all Commonwealth agencies incorporate environmental justice into their missions. This includes identifying and addressing the disproportionate environmental and health impacts on communities of color and low-income communities. The Office will be responsible for advising the Governor and coordinating efforts across agencies to develop policies and practices that promote environmental justice, enhance public engagement, and ensure equitable access to information and decision-making processes.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Environmental Justice Task Force and the Environmental Justice Advisory Board. The Task Force will consist of up to fifteen members, including representatives from affected communities and various state departments, and will be tasked with developing action plans to address environmental health risks in municipalities. The Advisory Board will review and make recommendations on laws and policies affecting environmental health. The bill emphasizes the importance of public participation and transparency in addressing environmental justice issues, aiming to create a more equitable framework for environmental governance in Pennsylvania. The act will take effect in 60 days.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 69 (Jan 22, 2025): P.L.177, No.175
Printer's No. 0069: P.L.177, No.175