Urban Tree Expansion Program Act

 

 

create cleaner cities and a cooler, healthier environment by increasing the number of trees and green spaces in urban

areas across the state.

 

state-level grant program that provides funding to cities, counties, school districts, and community organizations for

planting trees around schools, parks, and neighborhoods to create safer environments and improve statewide air quality.

 

Urban areas in the state often face higher temperatures and poorer air quality due to concrete surfaces, vehicle

traffic, and limited green space. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), neighborhoods with fewer

trees can be up to 10°F hotter than those with more shade, increasing risks such as heat stroke and respiratory issues.

Trees provide cooling through shade and evaporation, absorb carbon dioxide, filter harmful pollutants, and support

mental health and community well-being.

 

Funding will come from the State Environmental Improvement Grant Fund.

The program will receive $5 million annually for five years.

Local governments, school districts, and community organizations may apply for grants of up to $100,000 per project.

Priority will be given to neighborhoods identified by the State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as having low tree

canopy coverage or high summer heat levels.

 

The State Department of Natural Resources will oversee grant distribution, monitor project progress, and ensure proper

use of funds.

Any organization misusing funds will:

Lose eligibility for five years.

Be required to return all misused funds to the state.

Possible jail time, depending on the amount of funds that were abused.

 

six months after passage.

Within the first three months after passage, the State DNR shall establish:

The grant application process and criteria.

A public website for communities to apply and track projects.

A list of priority urban areas in need of tree planting based on heat, pollution, and canopy data.

During the following three months, the DNR will begin accepting applications from eligible state entities and community

organizations.

Tree planting and project implementation will officially begin at the start of the next fiscal year after enactment.

The program will operate for five years, after which the state legislature will review its effectiveness and determine

whether it should be renewed or expanded.