Connecting Local and Tribal Governments to Federal Climate Funding
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act) is a $1.2 trillion federal investment signed into law by President Biden in 2021. It designates nearly $400 billion to clean energy projects, with the goal of substantially lowering the nation's carbon emissions by 2030.
OUR PRIORITIES
Connect local leaders and share examples of projects that can fight climate change, protect public health, create quality jobs, invest in clean energy, and modernize our nation’s infrastructure.
Share resources with local and tribal governments and states to access federal funding for project implementation.
Elevate local success stories and blueprints for community action.
RECENT IMPACT
We have urged U.S. Senators in the Interior West to support the climate components in these investment packages.
We have hosted briefings, provided online resources, and offered technical assistance to help communities access federal dollars.
We worked with leaders in Montana, Nevada, and New Mexico who published op-eds on the importance of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act to limiting pollution and protecting disproportionately impacted communities.
GET INVOLVED
Do you have a question about applying for or implementing federal climate funds? Is there a resource WLN can provide that would help local and tribal governments navigate these new funding opportunities? Would you like to share a story with other leaders about how federal climate investments will benefit your community? Email jess@westernleaders.org and let us know, or take a moment to complete our survey to assess your needs.
TOOLS & RESOURCES
Biden Administration
Justice40 week of action highlights historic investments in overburdened and underserved communities
Administration releases playbook, announces massive new tribal funding from BIL
Environmental Justice Resources
Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Tribal Playbook
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Webinar: Funding For Energy Communities
THE DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
Webinar: 180-day BIL Progress Update
U.S. Energy and Employment Jobs Report
THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Webinar: How to Apply for and Manage Federal Grants
THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Reconnecting Communities pilot program and funding opportunities
THE DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Tribes to receive $1.7 billion from BIL to fulfill Indian water rights settlements
Guidance: BIL abandoned mine land grant for eligible states and the Navajo Nation
Guidance: BIL program to plug, remediate and reclaim orphan wells
OTHER
National Governors Association: IIJA Implementation Resources
National Association of Counties: Implementing Infrastructure Investments at the County Level
National League of Cities: Accessing and Maximizing Infrastructure Funds
Blue Green Alliance: A User Guide to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law