Excess Urban Heat Mitigation Act of 2023

HR 2945 establishes a federal grant program to fund heat mitigation projects in urban areas disproportionately affected by extreme heat. It directs at least 75% of annual funding ($30 million per year from 2023-2030) toward high-poverty neighborhoods (defined as census tracts with ≥20% poverty rate) and communities with low tree cover and higher summer temperatures. The program supports concrete projects like planting native trees, installing cool roofs/pavements, building renewable-powered cooling centers, and creating community gardens to reduce urban heat islands. Eligible applicants include cities, tribes, nonprofits, and community groups, with requirements for community engagement and annual reporting on project outcomes. The law aims to address health and economic impacts of heat while prioritizing environmental justice in implementation.