Preparing Superfund for Climate Change

Summary#

This bill would change a part of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980. It adds a requirement that decisionmakers consider the potential threat to human health and the environment from local natural disasters and extreme weather, including any projected worsening or change due to climate change. It also requires the President to include in the regular review an assessment of whether the selected cleanup action remains protective after taking those local disasters and climate-driven changes into account. The bill was introduced April 14, 2026 by Senator Adam Schiff and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.

What it means for you#

• When officials choose a cleanup plan for a contaminated site, they must consider local disasters and extreme weather and how those risks may change with climate change.
• The regular review of chosen cleanup plans must assess whether the plan will still protect people and the environment after those risks are considered.
• The bill text does not change who pays for cleanups or set new deadlines.

Expenses#

No publicly available information.

Proponents' View#

The bill’s text and title show supporters seek to make cleanup choices and follow-up reviews account for climate-driven risks and local extreme weather so remedies remain protective of health and the environment.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information.