CAP Act of 2025

Grants to help communities plan for climate risks

If enacted, the EPA would start a competitive grant program within one year. Local governments and Tribal entities could get funds to develop climate adaptation plans. No local match would be required. Applications would need to show a low-income community is included and outline risks, a timeline, and stakeholder engagement. The bill would define a low-income community as a census block group where at least 30% of people have income at or below the greater of 80% of area median income or 200% of the federal poverty line. Priority would go to applicants that include an environmental justice community. Funded plans would assess risks to people, nature, housing, infrastructure, and public buildings, and list actions like land use, zoning, and building code updates. Plans would align with existing hazard, land use, economic, and emergency plans where practical. EPA would issue guidance after consulting youth, farmers, NGOs, scientists, unions, businesses, Indigenous communities, and local governments.