Plain Language Summary
# IMPACT Act Summary **What It Does:** The IMPACT Act would direct the Department of Energy to create a temporary program supporting research and development of low-emissions cement, concrete, and asphalt. The program would fund demonstration projects focused on making these building materials with less environmental impact through carbon capture technology, energy-efficient production processes, and novel material innovations. The goal is to develop these "green" alternatives while keeping them cost-effective and durable compared to traditional materials. **Who It Affects:** The bill targets companies, universities, nonprofits, and government agencies involved in construction materials and infrastructure development. It could benefit the construction industry, environmental efforts to reduce emissions, and rural areas looking to develop infrastructure.
Taxpayers would fund the program through federal spending. **Key Provisions & Status:** The DOE would select various organizations to run demonstration projects and could terminate projects once sufficient low-emissions materials are being produced commercially. The bill has passed the House and is awaiting Senate action. It's backed by a Republican sponsor but focuses on practical climate and infrastructure goals that could appeal across party lines.
CRS Official Summary
Innovative Mitigation Partnerships for Asphalt and Concrete Technologies Act or the IMPACT ActThis bill requires the Department of Energy (DOE) to establish a temporary program that supports advanced production of low-emissions cement, concrete, and asphalt.Specifically, the program must support research, development, and commercial application of production processes for low-emissions cement, concrete, and asphalt that are more cost-effective, durable, or resource-efficient (i.e., advanced production). The program must particularly focus on carbon capture technologies, energy-efficient processes, research involving novel materials, and other specified technologies and innovative processes.DOE must select entities to implement relevant demonstration projects; eligible entities include government, nonprofit, educational, and private sector entities. DOE may terminate these projects if it determines that sufficient amounts of low-emissions cement, concrete, and asphalt that are produced through advanced production are commercially available at reasonable prices.The program terminates seven years after the bill is enacted.
Latest Action
Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.