To honor the late-Representative A. Donald McEachin (D-Va.), the 118th Congress introduced the A. Donald McEachin Environmental Justice For All Act in recognition of the congressman’s lifelong commitment to environmental justice. The late Congressman carried a similar bill during his tenure in Congress.

The federal legislation is rooted in the moral principle that all people have the right to pure air, clean water, and an environment that enriches life. It is informed by the belief that federal policy can and should seek to achieve environmental justice, health equity, and climate justice for all underserved communities.

Centered on the simple premise that everyone has the right to drink clean water, breathe clean air, and live without fear of the poisonous effects of toxic chemicals, the A. Donald McEachin Environmental Justice for All Act and the process used to create it, stand as an example to follow and a significant step to end environmental racism. – Environmental Justice Act Letter of Support

• Strengthens Title VI of the Act to prohibit discrimination based on disparate impact allows private citizens, residents, and organizations to seek a legal remedy when faced with discrimination.
• Requires permitting decisions to consider the cumulative impacts of development on human health under the Clean Water Act and the Clean Air Act.
• Federal agencies must develop environmental justice strategies and report on implementation and progress regularly. 
• Requires federal agencies to provide early and meaningful community involvement opportunities when proposing an action affecting an environmental justice community.
• Offers grants to research and investigate personal and childcare products containing chemicals linked to adverse health impacts.
• Supports more equitable access to parks and recreational opportunities, prioritizing projects and recreational opportunities that benefit underserved urban communities.

The Environmental Justice community was rocked by the loss of one of our biggest Congressional champions this last November with the premature passing of Rep. Donald McEachin of Virginia. Representative McEachin’s untimely death reminded our community of the importance for us to honor and remember while we push forward. 

You can support the A. Donald McEachin Environmental Justice For All Act by calling your Congressional representatives (202-224-3121) and tell them you want Environmental Justice For All!