Enacts the stop highway community harm act

Showing the cosponsors who are on Agora, A to Z. The official record may list more.

• Democratic3

Shown in neutral colors by design; Agora is non-partisan.

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Luis R. Sepúlveda says this is needed

For decades, highway construction and expansion projects have dispropor- tionately impacted low-income communities and residents of public hous- ing. Many of these developments are located adjacent to major roadways, exposing residents to higher levels of traffic pollution, noise, and environmental hazards. Vehicle emissions-including particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and other pollutants-are strongly associated with increased rates of respir- atory illness, particularly asthma. Communities already experiencing elevated asthma rates should not face additional environmental burdens from highway expansions that bring increased traffic and emissions even closer to where residents live. Public housing residents, including children, seniors, and individuals with preexisting health conditions, are especially vulnerable to the health effects of air pollution. Expanding highways near these develop- ments exacerbates existing public health disparities and undermines environmental justice goals. This legislation ensures that state transportation planning considers the health and well-being of residents in public housing communities. By prohibiting highway widening projects within proximity to these developments in areas already experiencing high asthma rates, the bill helps prevent further harm and promotes healthier living environments.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.