revitalization, and shut down harmful ….

revitalization, and shut down harmful methane emissions.

“The Department of the Interior is moving quickly to implement President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. We are committed to getting these funds to states and communities as quickly as possible to confront legacy pollution and long-standing environmental injustices that have been allowed to fester for far too long,” said Secretary Deb Haaland.“With so many communities looking forward to this program, we are eager to hear from diverse voices to review and provide feedback on this draft guidance.”

The draft guidance released provides draft instructions to states on how to apply for initial orphaned well grants of up to $25 million under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, as well as guidance on how states can ensure that activities funded under the program are putting people to work, protecting the environment, investing in disadvantaged communities consistent with the President’s Justice 40 Initiative, and safeguarding taxpayer money in a transparent and responsible manner.

States will also be eligible for formula and performance grants under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Guidance for those applications will be informed by comments received on the initial grants draft guidance and will be released a later date.

Comments on the guidance can be emailed to orphanedwells@ ios.doi.gov by 11:59 p.m. PT on March 30 and will help inform any changes moving forward.