H.R. 8238 — RESTART Communities Act of 2026

This section directs the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development and the EPA Administrator to carry out interagency activities promoting economic revitalization—defined as efforts to create or retain long-term private sector jobs and expand or upgrade infrastructure—of eligible sites (i.e., current or former sites of environmental contamination, including manufacturing facilities, where either agency engages stakeholders, provides funding or resources, or offers technical assistance) before, during, and after remediation. The agencies may coordinate via memorandum of understanding and consult other governmental entities. To implement these activities, the agencies may (1) establish interagency processes for timely support, access to technical assistance, Federal grants and loans (subject to fair competition), and best practices emphasizing community engagement, environmental justice, and distressed communities; (2) support public input collection; (3) develop and disseminate best practices, tools, metrics, and resources; (4) facilitate data collection and sharing to monitor progress; and (5) support education, training, and workforce development, including internships, curriculum development, and professional development (subject to appropriations). Not later than three years after enactment, the agencies must report to the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works and the House Committees on Energy and Commerce and Transportation and Infrastructure detailing activities, achievements, workforce initiatives, and expansion opportunities.