Climate Change: Federal Mitigation and Adaptation Policies

This report examines federal policies addressing climate change, including greenhouse gas emission reduction strategies, clean energy incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act, and adaptation measures for climate-related risks. It describes the EPA's authority under the Clean Air Act to regulate carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases.

The report discusses the Paris Agreement and U.S. participation in international climate negotiations, as well as domestic initiatives including clean electricity standards, vehicle emission standards, methane reduction programs, and federal sustainability mandates.

Congressional considerations include debates over the scope of EPA regulatory authority, the economic costs and benefits of climate action, environmental justice provisions, the role of carbon capture and nuclear energy in decarbonization, and federal support for communities and workers affected by the energy transition.