H.R.3009 - Trees for Residential Energy and Economic Savings Act of 2025; TREES Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3009, the TREES Act of 2025, aims to establish a grant program under the Department of Energy to facilitate tree planting projects. These projects are intended to reduce residential energy consumption. The bill allocates $50 million per year from 2026 to 2030 for this program.
Expected Effects
The bill, if enacted, would lead to the creation of a grant program focused on tree planting. This program would prioritize projects that maximize energy reduction, especially for low-income households, and involve community engagement. It is expected to lead to the planting of at least 300,000 trees annually.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced residential energy consumption, leading to lower energy bills for households.
- Prioritization of projects in low-income neighborhoods, addressing energy burden.
- Community engagement and local job creation through tree planting projects.
- Environmental benefits from increased tree canopy cover, such as improved air quality and carbon sequestration.
- Potential for increased property values in neighborhoods with enhanced green spaces.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for inefficient allocation of funds if projects are not properly vetted or managed.
- Administrative overhead associated with establishing and managing the grant program.
- Possible delays in implementation due to the 90-day timeframe for establishing the program.
- Risk that the selection criteria may not accurately identify the most effective projects.
- Dependence on annual appropriations, which could be subject to political changes.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve the living conditions and economic well-being of citizens by reducing energy costs and promoting environmental sustainability. Specifically, the preamble states the intention to "promote the general Welfare".
Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to collect taxes and provide for the general welfare of the United States. The appropriation of funds for this grant program falls under this power. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).