Broad Coalition Calls on Congress to Support EPA’s School and Children’s Health Programs

On July 14, UndauntedK12 joined fifty organizations nationwide urging Congress to fully fund the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s school environmental health programs.

The letter—organized by the Coalition for Healthier Schools and sent to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies—called for a $100 million investment in EPA’s tools and resources that help schools improve indoor air quality and reduce health risks.

For decades, the EPA has provided resources to help schools prevent and address indoor air quality problems—such as poor ventilation, asthma triggers, and improper chemical use. The requested $100 million would mark a significant federal commitment to supporting schools struggling with aging infrastructure, failing HVAC systems, and poor indoor environmental quality.

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On July 29, the Senate Appropriations Committee voted to continue funding the EPA’s indoor air, school environmental health, and children’s health programs Their report explicitly links school environmental health to the Energy Act of 2020 and directs the EPA to work with the Departments of Energy and Education to identify new ways for schools to reduce emissions, reduce waste, and improve learning environments for students.