Five agencies would form youth environmental advisory councils

What does this do?

This bill would require five federal agencies to each create a Youth Advisory Council of 15 to 25 people between the ages of 16 and 29. These councils would research environmental topics, write reports, and send recommendations to their agency at least once a year on issues like climate change, pollution, and environmental fairness.

Who does it affect?

Council members would come from backgrounds such as business, schools, local governments, and environmental groups. At least half of each council's members must come from, live in, or work in communities identified as disadvantaged due to environmental or economic hardships.

Why does it matter?

The five agencies affected would be the EPA, the Department of the Interior, the Department of Energy, the Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Commerce. Each agency would receive formal input from young people on environmental decisions, particularly those affecting struggling communities.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Up to $250K/year per agency
• Funds 5 agencies
• 2027–2037