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SAN FRANCISCO – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a Unilateral Administrative Order to the Havasu Water Company to take a series of steps to prevent further violations of the Safe Drinking Water Act. In taking this action to protect the health of the community served by the Havasu Water Company, the EPA specifically cited the company’s failure to adhere to the Act’s drinking water regulations, including violation of the maximum allowable level for total trihalomethanes. Trihalomethanes are byproducts that may form during the disinfection process and may threaten human health through long-term exposure at levels above the federal limits.

“A top priority under EPA’s public health mission is to ensure that the drinking water of all of our communities – no matter how big or small, or wealthy or disadvantaged – is safe and reliable,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “We will continue to fully utilize our authority to make sure that safe drinking water standards are met.”

The National Primary Drinking Water Regulations under the Safe Drinking Water Act set a maximum contaminant level for total trihalomethanes at 80 micrograms per liter. Long-term exposure to levels above that may lead to increased risk of cancer, along with liver, kidney, or central nervous problems. Additional Havasu Water Company violations cited by the EPA include the company’s failure to have qualified personnel operate the water system, failure to provide required public notifications, failure to correct significant deficiencies with the system, and failure to report appropriate surface water treatment data.

The Havasu Water Company is a privately-owned community water system located along the western shore of Lake Havasu and within the boundaries of the Chemehuevi Indian Reservation. The system relies on surface water filtration treatment to serve drinking water to approximately 361 people.

The Unilateral Administrative Order requires the company to develop a plan, according to EPA-imposed deadlines, to come into compliance with the total trihalomethanes limit, retain an appropriately certified operator, issue required public notices, address any remaining significant deficiencies, and submit appropriate and timely surface water treatment data.

EPA can issue a Unilateral Administrative Order as an enforceable instrument to require violators to address outstanding violations with corrective actions on an established schedule. F or more information about this order and EPA’s actions, visit Regulatory Oversight of the Havasu Water Company Public Water System, Needles, CA.

For more information on reporting possible violations of environmental laws and regulations, visit EPA’s enforcement reporting website.

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DALLAS, TEXAS (May 30, 2024) — The Biden-Harris Administration announced the recipients of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2023 Clean School Bus Program rebate competition, funded by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. EPA selected the Albuquerque Public School to receive $6,900,000 to purchase 20 new and clean school buses to replace older, diesel fueled school buses that have been linked to asthma and other conditions that harm the health of students and surrounding communities.

These rebates will help school districts purchase over 3,400 clean school buses—92% of which will be electric— to accelerate the transition to zero emission vehicles and produce cleaner air in and around schools and communities. Under the Program's multiple grant and rebate funding opportunities to date, the EPA has awarded almost $3 billion to fund approximately 8,500 school bus replacements at over 1,000 schools.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan, NAACP President Derrick Johnson, and U.S. Representative Bennie Thompson joined schoolchildren, district leaders, and community members in Jackson, Mississippi, to make the announcement and highlight how the program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save schools money, and better protect children’s health, especially in communities already overburdened by pollution. The investment will also drive demand for American-made batteries and vehicles, boost domestic manufacturing, and create good-paying jobs for Americans.

“President Biden believes every child deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy life and breathe clean air, and his Investing in America agenda is designed to deliver just that,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With today’s latest round of funding, we are transforming the nation’s school bus fleet to better protect our most precious cargo—our kids—saving school districts money, improving air quality, and bolstering American manufacturing all at the same time.”

“Today’s announcement is good news for children in New Mexico, especially those in underserved areas who are often exposed to more air pollution and health risks such as asthma,” said Region 6 Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “Replacing diesel fueled buses with clean school buses reduces harmful emissions and improves air quality in communities throughout the nation. I want to offer our congratulations to the selected school districts for their partnership and for implementing environmentally friendly practices.”

“I’m proud to welcome nearly $7 million in funding from the Biden administration to help fund a new fleet of electric school buses at Albuquerque Public Schools,” said U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Luján (NM). “Through their daily commutes, students spend a large amount of their time on school buses and deserve clean air to breathe around schools and their communities. That’s why I’m honored to welcome this critical funding that will add more clean school buses in Albuquerque." 

“Electrifying school buses is about making sure our kids aren’t breathing in dangerous diesel fumes. This new funding will protect our kids’ health, make our air cleaner, and save taxpayer money. This is the latest example of how our Infrastructure Law is building a better, healthier future for New Mexico’s children,” said U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich (NM).

"I'm proud to welcome $6.9 million in funding and 20 new electric school buses from the EPA for Albuquerque Public Schools! Pollution levels inside school buses are often higher than outside, posing a significant health risk to our kids. This funding is a critical step towards addressing this issue, supporting our environment and ensuring a healthier future for our children," said Rep. Gabe Vasquez (NM).

"The Biden Administration is providing a game changer for New Mexico and Albuquerque Public Schools," said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM). "Each day, our buses take students all over cities—ensuring their safe travel to and from schools, and this $6.9 million plus the 20 electric school buses transforms the effect these buses have on our local environments—for the better. This investment is another example of how the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law positively impacts New Mexico."

In September 2023, the EPA announced the availability of at least $500 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus rebates. The rebate application period closed in February 2024 with an overwhelming response from school districts across the country seeking to purchase electric and clean school buses. Given the level of demand, including from low-income communities, Tribal nations and U.S. territories, the EPA doubled the initial amount of available funding in this round to a total of nearly $1 billion. 

This third round of funding will build on the previous  investments of almost $2 billion via the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates and 2023 Grants to further improve air quality in and around schools, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.

The selections announced will provide funds to school districts in 47 states and Washington D.C., along with several federally recognized Tribes and U.S. territories. Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and Tribal communities make up approximately 45 percent of the selected projects and will receive approximately 67 percent of the total funding. The program advances President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.

The EPA is also partnering with other federal agencies through the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide school districts with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation.

The EPA is continuing to review selected applications and may make additional awards from this announcement. The EPA is working with those applicants and will notify them of an award if their application meets all program requirements. As additional selections are finalized, the EPA will update the CSB Awards webpage.

The EPA will also make selections through additional rounds of funding, as well as through other funding programs. For example, the EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program until 11:59 PM ET on July 25, 2024 – with the EPA offering up to $932 million in available grant funding and anticipates approximately 70% of the available funding to help pay for new, zero-emission Class 6 or 7 school buses. The EPA encourages school districts not selected for the 2023 CSB Rebate Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in currently open funding programs, and future CSB funding rounds.

About the Clean School Bus Program

The EPA Clean School Bus Program was created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, which produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.

The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts and produce cleaner air. Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Phasing out these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.

The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Clean School Bus Program will save school districts money as they upgrade school bus fleets, replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses, while freeing up needed resources for schools.

View the full list of Clean School Bus Program awards here – https://www.epa.gov/cleanschoolbus/clean-school-bus-program-awards.

Connect with the Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), or visit our homepage.

WASHINGTON – Today, May 30, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is inviting public comment on two tentative permits under the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act for a research study on a potential climate change mitigation technique referred to as ocean alkalinity enhancement. The research study is proposed by a researcher at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.

The proposed research is part of Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution’s “LOC-NESS Project.” The applicant and their research team are interested in studying a potential climate change mitigation technique referred to as ocean alkalinity enhancement, which may result in possible removal and storage of carbon dioxide from ocean waters. The study would advance scientific knowledge of an ocean alkalinity enhancement method and its potential impacts to human health, the marine environment, and other uses of the ocean. The EPA does not anticipate any measurable environmental or other impacts beyond the monitoring periods of the study.

Under the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act, the EPA has the authority to issue research permits for the transportation and disposition of materials into the ocean for a research study when it is determined that the scientific merit of the proposed project outweighs the potential environmental or other damage that may result from the activities. While the EPA has issued many research permits under the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act, if issued, these would be the first permits by the agency to authorize this kind of research project studying ocean alkalinity enhancement.

The EPA welcomes comments on the tentative permits. Information on the proposed research activities and the EPA’s tentative determination to issue these permits are available on the Federal Rulemaking Portal Docket ID Nos. EPA-HQ-OW-2023-0591 and EPA-HQ-OW-2024-0189. The EPA will consider all comments received during the public comment period to inform the final determinations and conditions for the permitted activities.

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution has proposed a two-phased study. Phase 1 would occur over several days in the summer of 2024 south of Martha’s Vineyard (approximately 9.5 miles south of the nearest shoreline in Nomans Land Island, Massachusetts). Phase 2 would occur over several weeks in the summer of 2025 within the Wilkinson Basin (approximately 38 miles from the nearest shoreline in Cape Cod, Massachusetts). Both phases of the study would involve a controlled release of a sodium hydroxide solution, an alkaline liquid, into surface ocean waters and multi-day monitoring of temporary shifts in water chemistry and other environmental changes.

The EPA is hosting a virtual listening session on June 17, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. EDT to share information on both phases of the proposed research activities and the EPA’s tentative determinations. All persons who wish to participate in the listening session must register in advance.

Background

There is a growing interest from federal agencies, researchers, industry and non-governmental entities to research marine carbon dioxide removal techniques, such as ocean alkalinity enhancement, that have the potential to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change. The EPA recognizes that research is needed to better understand the effectiveness of potential marine carbon dioxide removal techniques for mitigating the impacts of climate change and to understand the potential environmental benefits and risks of implementing these approaches. Depending on project specifics, a permit may be required for marine carbon dioxide removal activities in coastal waters or the ocean under permitting programs administered by the agency. Additional information is available on the EPA’s website for permitting of marine carbon dioxide removal activities.

ATLANTA, GA. (May 29, 2024) – Today, the Biden-Harris Administration announced the recipients of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2023 Clean School Bus Program rebate competition, funded by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. The rebates will help selectees purchase over 22 clean school buses in six school districts across Georgia. The Program will help Georgia accelerate the transition to zero emission vehicles and to replace older, diesel fueled school buses, which have been linked to asthma and other conditions that harm the health of students and surrounding communities.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan will join schoolchildren, district leaders and community members in Jackson, Miss., today to make the announcement and highlight how the program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save schools money, and better protect children’s health. The investment will also drive demand for American-made batteries and vehicles, boost domestic manufacturing, and create good-paying jobs.

• Atkinson County has been selected to receive $210,000 in rebate funding to purchase six clean school buses for the Blue Bird Body Company.

• Baldwin County has been selected to receive $2,070,000 in rebate funding to purchase six clean school buses for Baldwin County Board of Education.

• Brooks County has been selected to receive $315,000 in rebate funding to purchase 9 clean school buses for the Blue Bird Body Company.

• Clayton County has been selected to receive $8,625,000 in rebate funding to purchase 25 clean school buses for the Clayton County Public Schools.

• Dekalb County has been selected to receive $8,625,000,000 in rebate funding to purchase 25 clean school buses for the Dekalb Co Board of Education.

• Douglas County has been selected to receive $5,000,000 in rebate funding to purchase 25 clean school buses for the Georgia Green Energy Services Llc.

• Hall County has been selected receive $625,000 in rebate funding to purchase 25 clean school buses for the Blue Bird Body Company.

• Jeff Davis County has been selected receive $1,725,000 in rebate funding to purchase five clean school buses for the Jeff Davis County School District.

• Madison County has been selected receive $175,000 in rebate funding to purchase five clean school buses for the Blue Bird Body Company.

• Oglethorpe County has been selected receive $100,000 in rebate funding to purchase four clean school buses for the Blue Bird Body Company.

“President Biden believes every child deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy life and breathe clean air, and his Investing in America agenda is designed to deliver just that,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With today’s latest round of funding, we are transforming the nation’s school bus fleet to better protect our most precious cargo—our kids—saving school districts money, improving air quality, and bolstering American manufacturing all at the same time.”
 

“Clean transportation investments will have lasting impacts on protecting clean air for the environment,” said Acting EPA Region 4 Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle. “This significant funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will allow children across the Southeast to breathe cleaner air and communities will reap tremendous health benefits.” 

"The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is delivering for our communities. The latest Clean School Bus Program investments will help Clayton County Public Schools deliver safer, healthier rides for students. As a parent, I know a healthy environment is key to student success. I look forward to working with the Biden-Harris administration and EPA Administrator Regan for a cleaner, brighter future for all children in Georgia—no matter their ZIP code, no matter their bank account," said Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05).

“I couldn’t be happier and prouder that DeKalb County Schools is receiving another $8.6 million for 25 clean school buses through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and to recognize and celebrate all the progress the Biden Administration is accomplishing – in conjunction with Democrats in Congress – when it comes to creating a cleaner environment, green economy, and healthier children,” Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) said.

“Through the bipartisan infrastructure law, we are delivering upgraded school buses to help Georgia kids get to school more safely and to reduce air pollution. I will keep working to deliver the best for Georgia’s children,” Senator Ossoff said. “I thank President Biden, Vice President Harris, and EPA Administrator Regan for their continued collaboration as we lead Georgia forward.”

In September 2023, the EPA announced the availability of at least $500 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus rebates. The rebate application period closed in February 2024 with an outstanding response from school districts across the country seeking to purchase electric and clean school buses. Given the overwhelming demand, including in low-income communities, Tribal nations and U.S. territories, EPA doubled the amount of available funding to nearly $1 billion.

This third round of funding will build on the previous almost $2 billion investment via the 2022 Rebates and 2023 Grants to further improve air quality in and around schools, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.

The selections announced today will provide funds to school districts in 47 states and Washington D.C., along with several federally recognized Tribes and U.S. territories. Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and Tribal communities make up approximately 45 percent of the selected projects and will receive approximately 67 percent of the total funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.

The EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Department of Transportation to provide school districts with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation.

The EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses this year. There is a small subset of tentatively selected applicants still engaged in the application review process. EPA is working with them and will notify these applicants of an award if their application meets all program requirements. As additional selections are finalized, EPA will update the CSB webpage.

EPA will also make selections through additional rounds of funding, as well as through other funding programs. For example, EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program until 11:59 PM ET on July 25, 2024 – with EPA offering nearly $1 billion in available grant funding and anticipates approximately 70% of the available funding to fund new, zero-emission Class 6 or 7 school buses.  EPA encourages school districts not selected for the 2023 CSB Rebate Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in currently open funding programs, and future CSB funding rounds.

About the Clean School Bus Program

The EPA Clean School Bus Program was created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, which produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.

The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts and produce cleaner air. Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Phasing out these diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.

The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will save school districts money as they upgrade school bus fleets, replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses, while freeing up needed resources for schools.

View the full list of Clean School Bus Program awards here – epa.gov/cleanschoolbus/clean-school-bus-program-awards.

###

SEATTLE (May 29, 2024) – Today, the Environmental Protection Agency finalized an aggressive $401 million plan to reduce the amount of pollution in Seattle’s East Waterway, one of two industrial channels of the Lower Duwamish River below the Spokane Street Bridge. The Port of Seattle, the City of Seattle, and King County will be responsible for conducting the cleanup.

East Waterway is one of seven sections, or “operable units,” of the larger Harbor Island Superfund Site which was placed on EPA’s National Priorities List in 1983 due to high levels of contaminants that accumulated over 150 years of urbanization and industrial development. These pollutants have contaminated the food web in Seattle’s only river, posing health risks to people who eat the local fish and shellfish. PCBs are the primary driver of risk to people who eat contaminated fish or shellfish, or who are exposed to contaminated sediment in the East Waterway.

The cleanup plan calls for aggressive efforts to reduce PCBs in East Waterway sediments to a level equivalent to “non-urban background” or two parts per billion, the same level the agency embraced for the cleanup of the Lower Duwamish Superfund Site. The average concentration of PCBs in East Waterway sediments is 460 parts per billion.

“Today’s action is a significant next step in removing PCBs and other legacy contaminants in the Duwamish River,” said Casey Sixkiller EPA Regional Administrator for the agency’s Pacific Northwest office in Seattle. “Our plan builds on years of studies of the East Waterway and community engagement, and furthers EPA’s commitment to applying the same aggressive cleanup goals in the East Waterway as we have in other parts of the river.”

“We appreciate EPA’s commitment to our community’s vision of a clean and healthy Green-Duwamish River,” said Laura Watson, director of the Washington Department of Ecology. “Removing these PCB-laden sediments will help protect the people and environment of the area. As we continue our work to reduce pollution sources both in the East Waterway and upstream, we look forward to seeing this sediment cleanup work begin.”

“We commend Regional Administrator Sixkiller and the EPA for demonstrating their commitment to environmental justice by acknowledging a ONE RIVER approach and releasing a health-protective plan created with robust community input,” said Paulina Lopez, Executive Director of Duwamish River Community Coalition. “This decision reflects years of the Duwamish community’s protests, campaigns, and public comments supporting a healthy Duwamish River. By centering the voices and priorities of those most impacted by pollution, we can achieve solutions that improve the environment for everybody — our Duwamish River is a River For All.”

The East Waterway cleanup plan consists of active cleanup of 120 acres of the mile-long waterway, prescribing removal of approximately 960,000 cubic yards of heavily contaminated sediment from 99 acres, on-site treatment of 12 acres under docks and piers, and capping an additional seven acres with clean material. A mix of other processes would be used to tackle the remaining acreage.

The cleanup plan complements other work in and around the Duwamish River, including by EPA, the Washington Department of Ecology, other state and local agencies, and industries to identify and reduce or eliminate the many sources of pollution that contaminate the river and Puget Sound. Each of these efforts is critical to achieving non-urban background levels of PCBs.

After the approximately 10 years of cleanup activities concludes, EPA will evaluate the effectiveness of the cleanup and source control work to determine what additional work, if any, is necessary to achieve cleanup goals. EPA will then begin a new process to develop a final cleanup plan, called a Record of Decision.

Until then, the cleanup plan released today is considered an Interim Record of Decision.
Following 10 years of active cleanup work and a period of extensive monitoring, the agency anticipates pollution levels in East Waterway sediments would be significantly reduced, thus decreasing contamination levels in fish and shellfish, and reducing risk for those who use the East Waterway for food and recreation, as well as for their livelihoods.

JACKSON, Miss. (May 29, 2024) – Today, the Biden-Harris Administration announced the recipients of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2023 Clean School Bus Program rebate competition, funded by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. The rebates will help selectees purchase over 30 clean school buses in three school districts across Mississippi. The Program will help Mississippi accelerate the transition to zero emission vehicles and to replace older, diesel fueled school buses, which have been linked to asthma and other conditions that harm the health of students and surrounding communities.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan will join schoolchildren, district leaders and community members in Jackson, Miss., today to make the announcement and highlight how the program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save schools money, and better protect children’s health. The investment will also drive demand for American-made batteries and vehicles, boost domestic manufacturing, and create good-paying jobs.

• First Student, Inc. has been selected to receive $7,975,000 in rebate funding to purchase 23 clean school buses in the Gulfport School District.

• Navistar, Inc. has been selected to receive $2,070,000 in rebate funding to purchase six clean school buses in the Leake County School District.

• Navistar, Inc. has been selected to receive $345,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus in the Picayune School District.

“President Biden believes every child deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy life and breathe clean air, and his Investing in America agenda is designed to deliver just that,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With today’s latest round of funding, we are transforming the nation’s school bus fleet to better protect our most precious cargo—our kids—saving school districts money, improving air quality, and bolstering American manufacturing all at the same time.”
 

“Clean transportation investments will have lasting impacts on protecting clean air for the environment,” said Acting EPA Region 4 Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle. “This significant funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will allow children across the Southeast to breathe cleaner air and communities will reap tremendous health benefits.” 

“I am grateful to the Biden-Harris Administration for expanding opportunities to provide clean school buses to schools and students in Mississippi's Second Congressional District, said Congressman Bennie G. Thompson. “This initiative ensures that children have a cleaner, safer, and more efficient means of school transportation and contributes to protecting our environment. By making meaningful progress and offering valuable opportunities for our students, we are paving the way toward stronger student success.”

In September 2023, the EPA announced the availability of at least $500 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus rebates. The rebate application period closed in February 2024 with an outstanding response from school districts across the country seeking to purchase electric and clean school buses. Given the overwhelming demand, including in low-income communities, Tribal nations and U.S. territories, EPA doubled the amount of available funding to nearly $1 billion.

This third round of funding will build on the previous almost $2 billion investment via the 2022 Rebates and 2023 Grants to further improve air quality in and around schools, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.

The selections announced today will provide funds to school districts in 47 states and Washington D.C., along with several federally recognized Tribes and U.S. territories. Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and Tribal communities make up approximately 45 percent of the selected projects and will receive approximately 67 percent of the total funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.

The EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Department of Transportation to provide school districts with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation.

The EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses this year. There is a small subset of tentatively selected applicants still engaged in the application review process. EPA is working with them and will notify these applicants of an award if their application meets all program requirements. As additional selections are finalized, EPA will update the CSB webpage.

EPA will also make selections through additional rounds of funding, as well as through other funding programs. For example, EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program until 11:59 PM ET on July 25, 2024 – with EPA offering nearly $1 billion in available grant funding and anticipates approximately 70% of the available funding to fund new, zero-emission Class 6 or 7 school buses.  EPA encourages school districts not selected for the 2023 CSB Rebate Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in currently open funding programs, and future CSB funding rounds.

About the Clean School Bus Program

The EPA Clean School Bus Program was created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, which produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.

The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts and produce cleaner air. Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Phasing out these diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.

The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will save school districts money as they upgrade school bus fleets, replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses, while freeing up needed resources for schools.

View the full list of Clean School Bus Program awards here – epa.gov/cleanschoolbus/clean-school-bus-program-awards.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (May 29, 2024) – Today, the Biden-Harris Administration announced the recipients of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2023 Clean School Bus Program rebate competition, funded by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. The rebates will help selectees purchase over 44 clean school buses in eight school districts across Tennessee. The Program will help Tennessee accelerate the transition to zero emission vehicles and to replace older, diesel fueled school buses, which have been linked to asthma and other conditions that harm the health of students and surrounding communities.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan will join schoolchildren, district leaders and community members in Jackson, Miss., today to make the announcement and highlight how the program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save schools money, and better protect children’s health. The investment will also drive demand for American-made batteries and vehicles, boost domestic manufacturing, and create good-paying jobs.

• Cumberland International Trucks, Inc. has been selected to receive $690,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses for the Bledsoe County School District.

• The Cheatham County Board of Education has been selected to receive $375,000 in rebate funding to purchase eight clean school buses for the Cheatham County School District.

• Mid-South Bus Center, Inc. has been selected to receive $5,175,000 in rebate funding to purchase 15 clean school buses for the Davidson County School District.

• Cumberland International Trucks, Inc. has been selected to receive $2,070,000 in rebate funding to purchase six clean school buses for the Henry County School District.

• Cumberland International Trucks, Inc. has been selected to receive $1,035,000 in rebate funding to purchase three clean school buses for the Jackson County School District.

• Cumberland International Trucks, Inc. has been selected to receive $880,000 in rebate funding to purchase four clean school buses for the Maryville School District.

• The Obion County School District has been selected to receive $400,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses.

• Cumberland International Trucks, Inc. has been selected to receive $1,380,000 in rebate funding to purchase four clean school buses for the Wayne County School District.

“President Biden believes every child deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy life and breathe clean air, and his Investing in America agenda is designed to deliver just that,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With today’s latest round of funding, we are transforming the nation’s school bus fleet to better protect our most precious cargo—our kids—saving school districts money, improving air quality, and bolstering American manufacturing all at the same time.”

“Clean transportation investments will have lasting impacts on protecting clean air for the environment,” said Acting EPA Region 4 Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle. “This significant funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will allow children across the Southeast to breathe cleaner air and communities will reap tremendous health benefits.” 

 

In September 2023, the EPA announced the availability of at least $500 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus rebates. The rebate application period closed in February 2024 with an outstanding response from school districts across the country seeking to purchase electric and clean school buses. Given the overwhelming demand, including in low-income communities, Tribal nations and U.S. territories, EPA doubled the amount of available funding to nearly $1 billion.

This third round of funding will build on the previous almost $2 billion investment via the 2022 Rebates and 2023 Grants to further improve air quality in and around schools, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.

The selections announced today will provide funds to school districts in 47 states and Washington D.C., along with several federally recognized Tribes and U.S. territories. Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and Tribal communities make up approximately 45 percent of the selected projects and will receive approximately 67 percent of the total funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.

The EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Department of Transportation to provide school districts with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation.

The EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses this year. There is a small subset of tentatively selected applicants still engaged in the application review process. EPA is working with them and will notify these applicants of an award if their application meets all program requirements. As additional selections are finalized, EPA will update the CSB webpage.

EPA will also make selections through additional rounds of funding, as well as through other funding programs. For example, EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program until 11:59 PM ET on July 25, 2024 – with EPA offering nearly $1 billion in available grant funding and anticipates approximately 70% of the available funding to fund new, zero-emission Class 6 or 7 school buses.  EPA encourages school districts not selected for the 2023 CSB Rebate Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in currently open funding programs, and future CSB funding rounds.

About the Clean School Bus Program

The EPA Clean School Bus Program was created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, which produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.

The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts and produce cleaner air. Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Phasing out these diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.

The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will save school districts money as they upgrade school bus fleets, replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses, while freeing up needed resources for schools.

View the full list of Clean School Bus Program awards here – epa.gov/cleanschoolbus/clean-school-bus-program-awards.

Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced 28 school districts across Michigan will benefit from the 2023 Clean School Bus Program rebate competition, funded by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. The program will help Michigan accelerate the transition to zero emission vehicles and to replace existing school buses, which have been linked to asthma and other conditions that harm the health of students and surrounding communities.  
  

• The Dearborn Academy has been selected to receive $1,035,000 in rebate funding to purchase three clean school buses.  
• Kent ISD has been selected to receive $3,080,000 in rebate funding to purchase 15 clean school buses.  
• Northville Public Schools has been selected to receive $200,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus.  
• Cass City Public Schools has been selected to receive $690,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses.   
• Kentwood Public Schools has been selected to receive $800,000 in rebate funding to purchase four clean school buses.   
• Three Rivers Community Schools has been selected to receive $400,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses. 
• Riverview Community School District has been selected to receive $50,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses. 
• Ludington Area School District has been selected to receive $1,200,000 in rebate funding to purchase six clean school buses. 
• Pellston Public Schools has been selected to receive $200,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus. 
• Woodhaven-Brownstown School District has been selected to receive $400,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses. 
• Vanderbilt Area Schools has been selected to receive $200,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus. 
• Gwinn Area Community Schools has been selected to receive $35,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus. 
• Brown City Community Schools has been selected to receive $345,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus. 
• Comstock Public Schools has been selected to receive $1,035,000 in rebate funding to purchase three clean school buses. 
• Troy School District has been selected to receive $400,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses. 
• Stockbridge Community Schools has been selected to receive $800,000 in rebate funding to purchase four clean school buses. 
• Allen Park Public Schools has been selected to receive $1,040,000 in rebate funding to purchase five clean school buses. 
• Trenton Public Schools has been selected to receive $2,000,000 in rebate funding to purchase 10 clean school buses. 
• Traverse City Area Public Schools has been selected to receive $200,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus. 
• Southfield Public School District has been selected to receive $220,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus. 
• Ann Arbor Public Schools has been selected to receive $800,000 in rebate funding to purchase four clean school buses.  
• Lansing Public School District has been selected to receive $1,725,000 in rebate funding to purchase five clean school buses. 
• Anchor Bay School District has been selected to receive $600,000 in rebate funding to purchase three clean school buses. 
• Chippewa Valley Schools has been selected to receive $400,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses. 
• Saline Area Schools has been selected to receive $600,000 in rebate funding to purchase three clean school buses. 
• Grand Rapids Public Schools has been selected to receive $5,175,000 in rebate funding to purchase 15 clean school buses. 
• Au Gres-Sims School District has been selected to receive $345,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus. 

“President Biden believes every child deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy life and breathe clean air, and his Investing in America agenda is designed to deliver just that,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With today’s latest round of funding, we are transforming the nation’s school bus fleet to better protect our most precious cargo—our kids—saving school districts money, improving air quality, and bolstering American manufacturing all at the same time.” 

“Today’s Clean School Bus announcement underscores EPA’s commitment to protecting both human health and the environment, especially for the most vulnerable among us,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. “Thanks to the unprecedented funding made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, more students throughout the Great Lakes region will have access to cleaner, safer school transportation.”    

“The bipartisan infrastructure law I helped pass is incentivizing Michigan school districts to make the clean energy investments needed to protect our students and lower emissions,” said Sen. Gary Peters. “I’m proud that this funding is coming to Michigan to help replace aging school buses with safer, cleaner models for our students who ride the bus to school.”  

“Diesel exhaust from school buses has a negative impact not only on our environment, but on the health of our children, teachers, bus drivers, and the surrounding communities,” said Rep. Debbie Dingell. “The Clean School Bus program is getting diesel buses off the roads, reducing our carbon emissions, and ensuring the air our children breathe on the way to school is cleaner and free from dangerous pollutants.”  

“Prior to the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Michigan had just 17 electric school buses," said EGLE Director Phil Roos. "I applaud the Biden Administration and our hardworking congressional delegation for investing in electric school buses, protecting our children, allowing schools to invest in the classroom, and helping us meet Michigan's ambitious climate goals. The EPA's Clean School Bus program and investments from Governor Gretchen Whitmer have accelerated Michigan’s transition to a clean energy future. Today, more than 200 clean-powered school buses are on the road or arriving soon in Michigan. Let’s keep working together to chart the future of clean energy while protecting the health and safety of our kids and communities.” 

In September 2023, the EPA announced the availability of at least $500 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus rebates. The rebate application period closed in February 2024 with an outstanding response from school districts across the country seeking to purchase electric and clean school buses. Given the overwhelming demand, including in low-income communities, Tribal nations and U.S. territories, EPA doubled the amount of available funding to nearly $1 billion.   

This third round of funding will build on the previous almost $2 billion investment via the 2022 Rebates and 2023 Grants to further improve air quality in and around schools, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.  

The selections announced today will provide funds to school districts in 47 states and Washington D.C., along with several federally recognized Tribes and U.S. territories. Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and Tribal communities make up approximately 45 percent of the selected projects and will receive approximately 67 percent of the total funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.   

The EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Department of Transportation to provide school districts with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation.  

EPA is continuing to review selected applications and may make additional awards from this announcement. The Agency is working with those applicants and will notify them of an award if their application meets all program requirements. As additional selections are finalized, the EPA will update the CSB Awards webpage.  

EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program until 11:59 PM ET on July 25, 2024 – with EPA offering up to $932 million in available grant funding and anticipates approximately 70% of the available funding to help pay for new, zero-emission Class 6 or 7 school buses. EPA encourages school districts not selected for the 2023 CSB Rebate Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in currently open funding programs, and future CSB funding rounds.  

About the Clean School Bus Program  

The EPA Clean School Bus Program was created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, which produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.  

The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts and produce cleaner air. Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Phasing out these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.   

The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Clean School Bus program will save school districts money as they upgrade school bus fleets, replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses, while freeing up needed resources for schools.  

View the full list of Clean School Bus Program awards.   

SAN FRANCISCO – In a significant move, the Biden-Harris Administration today announced the recipients of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2023 Clean School Bus Program rebate competition, a key initiative under President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. The rebates, totaling $8,345,000 for Arizona, will enable selectees to purchase 30 clean school buses in 10 school districts across the state. This program is a crucial step in Arizona's journey towards improving children’s health and tackling harmful air pollution, replacing older, diesel-fueled school buses linked to student and community health issues.

School Districts throughout Arizona selected to receive FY23 Clean School Bus Rebates:

• Casa Blanca Community School has been selected to receive $265,000 rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus.
• Chandler Unified District #80 has been selected to benefit from $640,000 in rebate funding to purchase three clean school buses.
• Creighton Elementary District has been selected to receive $1,765,000 in rebate funding to purchase five clean school buses.
• Isaac Elementary District has been selected to receive $1,765,000 in rebate funding to purchase five clean school buses.
• Joseph City Unified District has been selected to receive $690,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses.
• Laveen Elementary District has been selected to receive $1,000,000 in rebate funding to purchase five clean school buses.
• Littleton Elementary District has been selected to receive $420,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses.
• Madison Elementary District has been selected to receive $600,000 in rebate funding to purchase three clean school buses.
• Mohave Valley Elementary District has been selected to receive $1,055,000 in rebate funding to purchase three clean school buses.
• Patagonia Union High School District has been selected to receive $145,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus.

“EPA is proud to take another step in advancing the rollout of electric school buses in Arizona, helping create a future where our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA’s Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman.  “I’ve seen firsthand the advantages of these electric buses, with the absence of noxious diesel emissions benefiting students, school staff, and neighboring communities. Thanks to these investments, more electric school buses will be on the road in school districts across Arizona.”

“The impact of our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is reaching everyone, including kids,” U.S. Senator Mark Kelly said. “This investment will help schools in Arizona replace old buses so more students can ride zero-emission vehicles, improving health outcomes and reducing pollution.” 

“Today’s $8.3 million investment from my Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will bring 30 electric buses to Arizona – helping students travel safely to school while ensuring a cleaner and healthier Arizona,” said U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema, co-author and lead negotiator of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

“In Arizona, we know how critical it is to transition to a clean and sustainable future, and this clean energy bus funding will help make that possible,” said U.S. Representative Raul Grijalva (AZ-07). “We owe our kids cleaner air, less climate pollution, and a healthier learning environment. It has never been more apparent that the time to move towards clean transportation options is now. I’ll continue to fight for programs that move away from dirty fossil fuels and will make clean and zero emissions the standard, not the exception.”

“Thanks to our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, students across Arizona are getting to school in cleaner, safer buses, and Arizona taxpayers are getting millions of dollars back,” said U.S. Representative Ruben Gallego (AZ-03). “I’m proud to have helped secure these funds and will never stop fighting for Arizona’s kids.”

These rebates will help school districts nationwide purchase over 3,400 clean school buses—92% of which will be electric—to accelerate the transition to zero-emission vehicles and produce cleaner air in and around schools and communities. Under the Program's multiple grant and rebate funding opportunities, the EPA has awarded almost $3 billion to fund approximately 8,500 school bus replacements at over 1,000 schools.

In September 2023, the EPA announced at least $500 million in available funding nationwide for its 2023 Clean School Bus rebates. After receiving an overwhelming number of applications from school districts nationwide, including from low-income communities, Tribal nations, and U.S. territories, the EPA doubled the initial available funding in this round to nearly $1 billion.   

This third funding round will build on the almost $2 billion investment from the 2022 Rebates and 2023 Grants to further improve air quality in and around schools, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future. To ensure effective implementation, the EPA is partnering with other federal agencies through the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide school districts with robust technical assistance. 

The selections announced today will provide funds to school districts in 47 states, Washington D.C., and several federally recognized Tribes and U.S. territories. Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and Tribal communities comprise approximately 45 percent of the selected projects and will receive approximately 67 percent of the total funding. The program advances President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution.  

  The EPA is continuing to review selected applications and may make additional awards. The EPA is working with those applicants and will notify them of an award if their application meets all program requirements. As additional selections are finalized, the EPA will update the CSB Awards webpage.  

 The EPA will also make selections through additional funding rounds and other programs. For example, the EPA is accepting applications for the 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program until 11:59 PM ET on July 25, 2024. This program offers up to $932 million in available funding, 70% of which the EPA anticipates awarding to help pay for new, zero-emission Class 6 or 7 school buses.

About the Clean School Bus Program

Created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the EPA Clean School Bus Program received an unprecedented $5 billion to transform the nation’s school bus fleet. The Program funds electric buses, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, and propane and compressed natural gas buses, which produce lower tailpipe emissions than their older diesel predecessors.

The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Phasing out these diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas and the communities these buses drive through daily.

View the complete list of Clean School Bus Program awards here.

Learn more about the EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region on our Instagram, Facebook, X, and website.

LENEXA, KAN. (MAY 29, 2024) – Today, the Biden-Harris administration announced the recipients of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2023 Clean School Bus Program rebate competition, funded by President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda.

The rebates will help selectees purchase 56 clean school buses in 18 school districts across Missouri. The program will also help Missouri accelerate the transition to zero-emission vehicles and to replace existing school buses, which have been linked to asthma and other conditions that harm the health of students and surrounding communities.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan will join schoolchildren, district leaders, and community members in Jackson, Mississippi, today to make the announcement and highlight how the program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save schools money, and better protect children’s health. The investment will also drive demand for American-made batteries and vehicles, boost domestic manufacturing, and create good-paying jobs.

The 18 Missouri school districts are:

• Academie Lafayette has been selected to receive $1,380,000 in rebate funding to purchase four clean school buses.
• Affton School District has been selected to receive $200,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus.
• Campbell R-II School District has been selected to receive $710,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses.
• Crawford County R-1 School District has been selected to receive $1,380,000 in rebate funding to purchase four clean school buses.
• Kennett School District #39 has been selected to receive $730,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses.
• Knob Noster R-VIII School District has been selected to receive $1,200,000 in rebate funding to purchase six clean school buses.
• Lamar R-1 School District has been selected to receive $200,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school buses.
• Lewis County C-1 School District has been selected to receive $690,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses.
• Madison C-3 School District has been selected to receive $345,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school buses.
• New Haven School District has been selected to receive $200,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus.
• Newtown-Harris R-III School District has been selected to receive $345,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school buses.
• Normandy Schools Collaborative has been selected to receive $1,725,000 in rebate funding to purchase five clean school buses.
• Portageville School District has been selected to receive $690,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses.
• Potosi R-III School District has been selected to receive $3,450,000 in rebate funding to purchase 10 clean school buses.
• Princeton R-V School District has been selected to receive $1,725,000 in rebate funding to purchase five clean school buses.
• Scotland County R-1 School District has been selected to receive $730,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses.
• Scott County Central School District has been selected to receive $690,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses.
• Worth County R-III School District has been selected to receive $1,725,000 in rebate funding to purchase five clean school buses.

“President Biden believes every child deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy life and breathe clean air, and his Investing in America agenda is designed to deliver just that,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With today’s latest round of funding, we are transforming the nation’s school bus fleet to better protect our most precious cargo – our kids – saving school districts money, improving air quality, and bolstering American manufacturing all at the same time.”

“I am excited to announce that 18 school districts in Missouri are set to receive over $18 million in rebates to fund the purchase of 56 clean school buses across Missouri,” said EPA Region 7 Administrator Meghan A. McCollister. “Enabled with funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Clean School Bus program is helping to ensure our children and school staff breathe cleaner air, while also providing students with a cleaner and quieter ride to school.”

“As a direct result of President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, school districts across Missouri, including right here in Missouri’s Fifth, will receive $18 million to purchase dozens of clean, energy-efficient school buses,” said U.S. Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (MO-5). “Not only will these clean buses boost the health of our students and staff by curbing harmful pollution that comes from traditional buses, but it will also cut costs for school districts by lowering energy expenditures, ensuring more funding can go to kids and their education. Today’s announcement is another demonstration of what is possible for our communities when lawmakers come together to provide bipartisan solutions, and I’m proud to have helped make it possible by supporting the president’s historic infrastructure initiative.”

In September 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $500 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus (CSB) rebates. The rebate application period closed in February 2024 with an outstanding response from school districts across the country seeking to purchase electric and clean school buses. Given the overwhelming demand, including in low-income communities, tribal nations, and U.S. territories, EPA doubled the amount of available funding to nearly $1 billion.

This third round of funding will build on the previous nearly $2 billion investment via the 2022 rebates and 2023 grants to further improve air quality in and around schools, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.

The selections announced today will provide funds to school districts in 47 states and Washington, D.C., along with several federally recognized tribes and U.S. territories. Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and tribal communities make up approximately 45% of the selected projects and will receive approximately 67% of the total funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution.

EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide school districts with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation.

EPA is continuing to review selected applications and may make additional awards from this announcement. EPA is working with those applicants and will notify them of an award if their application meets all program requirements. As additional selections are finalized, EPA will update the CSB Awards page.

EPA will also make selections through additional rounds of funding, as well as through other funding programs. For example, EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program until 11:59 p.m. ET on July 25, 2024 – with EPA offering up to $932 million in available grant funding and anticipates approximately 70% of the available funding to help pay for new, zero-emission Class 6 or 7 school buses. EPA encourages school districts not selected for the 2023 CSB Rebate Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in currently open funding programs, and future CSB funding rounds.

About the Clean School Bus Program

EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, which produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to existing school buses.

The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and tribal communities. Phasing out existing school bus engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.

The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Clean School Bus program will save school districts money as they upgrade school bus fleets, replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses, while freeing up needed resources for schools.

View the full list of Clean School Bus program awards.

# # #

Learn more about EPA Region 7

View all Region 7 news releases

Connect with EPA Region 7 on Facebook and Instagram

Follow us on X: @EPARegion7

LENEXA, KAN. (MAY 29, 2024) – Today, the Biden-Harris administration announced the recipients of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2023 Clean School Bus Program rebate competition, funded by President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda.

The rebates will help selectees purchase six clean school buses in two school districts in Kansas. The program will also help Kansas accelerate the transition to zero-emission vehicles and to replace existing school buses, which have been linked to asthma and other conditions that harm the health of students and surrounding communities.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan will join schoolchildren, district leaders, and community members in Jackson, Mississippi, today to make the announcement and highlight how the program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save schools money, and better protect children’s health. The investment will also drive demand for American-made batteries and vehicles, boost domestic manufacturing, and create good-paying jobs.

The two Kansas school districts are:

• Ell-Saline Unified School District #307 has been selected to receive $275,000 in rebate funding to purchase four clean school buses.
• Iola Unified School District #257 has been selected to receive $690,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses.

“President Biden believes every child deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy life and breathe clean air, and his Investing in America Agenda is designed to deliver just that,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With today’s latest round of funding, we are transforming the nation’s school bus fleet to better protect our most precious cargo – our kids – saving school districts money, improving air quality, and bolstering American manufacturing all at the same time.”

“I am excited to announce that two school districts in Kansas are set to receive over $900,000 in rebates to fund the purchase of six clean school buses,” said EPA Region 7 Administrator Meghan A. McCollister. “Enabled with funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Clean School Bus program is helping to ensure our children and school staff breathe cleaner air, while also providing students with a cleaner and quieter ride to school.”

In September 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $500 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus (CSB) rebates. The rebate application period closed in February 2024 with an outstanding response from school districts across the country seeking to purchase electric and clean school buses. Given the overwhelming demand, including in low-income communities, tribal nations, and U.S. territories, EPA doubled the amount of available funding to nearly $1 billion.

This third round of funding will build on the previous nearly $2 billion investment via the 2022 rebates and 2023 grants to further improve air quality in and around schools, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.

The selections announced today will provide funds to school districts in 47 states and Washington, D.C., along with several federally recognized tribes and U.S. territories. Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and tribal communities make up approximately 45% of the selected projects and will receive approximately 67% of the total funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution.

EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide school districts with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation.

EPA is continuing to review selected applications and may make additional awards from this announcement. EPA is working with those applicants and will notify them of an award if their application meets all program requirements. As additional selections are finalized, EPA will update the CSB Awards page.

EPA will also make selections through additional rounds of funding, as well as through other funding programs. For example, EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program until 11:59 p.m. ET on July 25, 2024 – with EPA offering up to $932 million in available grant funding and anticipates approximately 70% of the available funding to help pay for new, zero-emission Class 6 or 7 school buses. EPA encourages school districts not selected for the 2023 CSB Rebate Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in currently open funding programs, and future CSB funding rounds.

About the Clean School Bus Program

EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, which produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to existing school buses.

The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and tribal communities. Phasing out existing school bus engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.

The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Clean School Bus program will save school districts money as they upgrade school bus fleets, replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses, while freeing up needed resources for schools.

View the full list of Clean School Bus program awards.

# # #

Learn more about EPA Region 7

View all Region 7 news releases

Connect with EPA Region 7 on Facebook and Instagram

Follow us on X: @EPARegion7

Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced 15 school districts across Minnesota will benefit from the 2023 Clean School Bus Program rebate competition, funded by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. The program will help Minnesota accelerate the transition to zero emission vehicles and to replace existing school buses, which have been linked to asthma and other conditions that harm the health of students and surrounding communities. 
 

• Rochester Public School District has been selected to receive $8,685,000 in rebate funding to purchase 25 clean school buses. 
• Cleveland Public School District has been selected to receive $50,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses. 
• Ogilvie Public School District has been selected to receive $25,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus. 
• Bloomington Public School District has been selected to receive $800,000 in rebate funding to purchase four clean school buses.  
• Rosemount – Apple Valley – Eagan has been selected to receive $1,600,000 in rebate funding to purchase eight clean school buses.  
• St. Clair Public School District has been selected to receive $50,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses. 
• Crosby-Ironton Public School District has been selected to receive $75,000 in rebate funding to purchase three clean school buses.  
• St. Paul Public School District has been selected to receive $8,685,000 in rebate funding to purchase 25 clean school buses.  
• Milaca Public School District has been selected to receive $75,000 in rebate funding to purchase three clean school buses. 
• St. Louis Park Public School District has been selected to receive $175,000 in rebate funding to purchase seven clean school buses. 
• Lanesboro Public School District has been selected to receive $690,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses.  
• Laporte Public School District has been selected to receive $345,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus.  
• Wrenshall Public School District has been selected to receive $25,000 to purchase one clean school bus. 
• Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools has been selected to receive $300,000 to purchase 12 clean school buses. 
• Edina Public School District has been selected to receive $400,000 to purchase two buses.  

“President Biden believes every child deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy life and breathe clean air, and his Investing in America agenda is designed to deliver just that,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With today’s latest round of funding, we are transforming the nation’s school bus fleet to better protect our most precious cargo—our kids—saving school districts money, improving air quality, and bolstering American manufacturing all at the same time.” 

“Today’s Clean School Bus announcement underscores EPA’s commitment to protecting both human health and the environment, especially for the most vulnerable among us,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. “Thanks to the unprecedented funding made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, more students throughout the Great Lakes region will have access to cleaner, safer school transportation.” 

“Minnesota is continuing to benefit from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in so many ways, including through these Clean School Bus grants,” said Rep. Betty McCollum. “The students on the bus and their communities get healthier air to breathe, their schools save money on more efficient vehicles, and our nation gets closer to meeting our greenhouse gas reduction targets while creating good jobs for Americans building the clean vehicle sector.”   

In September 2023, the EPA announced the availability of at least $500 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus rebates. The rebate application period closed in February 2024 with an outstanding response from school districts across the country seeking to purchase electric and clean school buses. Given the overwhelming demand, including in low-income communities, Tribal nations and U.S. territories, EPA doubled the amount of available funding to nearly $1 billion.  

This third round of funding will build on the previous almost $2 billion investment via the 2022 Rebates and 2023 Grants to further improve air quality in and around schools, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future. 

The selections announced today will provide funds to school districts in 47 states and Washington D.C., along with several federally recognized Tribes and U.S. territories. Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and Tribal communities make up approximately 45 percent of the selected projects and will receive approximately 67 percent of the total funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.  

The EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Department of Transportation to provide school districts with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. 

EPA is continuing to review selected applications and may make additional awards from this announcement. The Agency is working with those applicants and will notify them of an award if their application meets all program requirements. As additional selections are finalized, the EPA will update the CSB Awards webpage. 

EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program until 11:59 PM ET on July 25, 2024 – with EPA offering up to $932 million in available grant funding and anticipates approximately 70% of the available funding to help pay for new, zero-emission Class 6 or 7 school buses. EPA encourages school districts not selected for the 2023 CSB Rebate Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in currently open funding programs, and future CSB funding rounds. 

About the Clean School Bus Program 

The EPA Clean School Bus Program was created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, which produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors. 

The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts and produce cleaner air. Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Phasing out these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.  

The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Clean School Bus program will save school districts money as they upgrade school bus fleets, replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses, while freeing up needed resources for schools. 

View the full list of Clean School Bus Program awards.  

 

RALEIGH, NC (May 29, 2024) – Today, the Biden-Harris Administration announced the recipients of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2023 Clean School Bus Program rebate competition, funded by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. The rebates will help selectees purchase over 59 clean school buses in 14 school districts across North Carolina. The Program will help North Carolina accelerate the transition to zero emission vehicles and to replace older, diesel fueled school buses, which have been linked to asthma and other conditions that harm the health of students and surrounding communities.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan will join schoolchildren, district leaders and community members in Jackson, Miss., today to make the announcement and highlight how the program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save schools money, and better protect children’s health. The investment will also drive demand for American-made batteries and vehicles, boost domestic manufacturing, and create good-paying jobs.

• The Arts Based School Supporting Organization has been selected to receive $345,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus for the Arts Based School.

• The Ascend Leadership Academy has been selected to receive $3,450,000 in rebate funding to purchase 10 clean school buses for the Lee County School District.

• Carolina Thomas, LLC has been selected to receive $400,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses for the Cabarrus County Schools.

• Highland Electric Fleets, Inc. has been selected to receive $8,625,000 in rebate funding to purchase 25 clean school buses for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District.

• Highland Electric Fleets, Inc. has been selected to receive $690,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses for the East Voyager Academy.

• Carolina Thomas, LLC has been selected to receive $345,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus for the Fernleaf Community Charter School.

• The Girls Leadership Academy of Wilmington Foundation has been selected to receive $365,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus for the Girls Leadership Academy of Wilmington.

• Highland Electric Fleets, Inc. has been selected to receive $1,725,000 in rebate funding to purchase five clean school buses for the Kipp Gaston College Preparatory School.

• Highland Electric Fleets, Inc. has been selected to receive $1,035,000 in rebate funding to purchase three clean school buses for the Kipp Halifax College Preparatory School.

• The Northeast Carolina Preparatory School has been selected to receive $365,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus.

• Carolina Thomas LLC has been selected to receive $690,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses for the Shining Rock Classical Academy.

• The Southeastern Academy has been selected to receive $400,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses.

• The Telra Institute has been selected to receive $420,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses.

• The Woods Charter School has been selected to receive $400,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses.

“President Biden believes every child deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy life and breathe clean air, and his Investing in America agenda is designed to deliver just that,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With today’s latest round of funding, we are transforming the nation’s school bus fleet to better protect our most precious cargo—our kids—saving school districts money, improving air quality, and bolstering American manufacturing all at the same time.”
 

“Clean transportation investments will have lasting impacts on protecting clean air for the environment,” said Acting EPA Region 4 Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle. “This significant funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will allow children across the Southeast to breathe cleaner air and communities will reap tremendous health benefits.” 

“Our children, and the communities who raise them, deserve clean air and a good education. The EPA’s Clean School Bus Program plays an essential role towards transitioning our school buses to zero- and low-emission vehicles and helps to make this a reality,” said Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12). “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which I was proud to support in Congress, is once again bearing the kinds of investments we need to move to a clean energy economy and this program will build on the work Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools and Kannapolis City Schools have already done to make their fleets greener.”

In September 2023, the EPA announced the availability of at least $500 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus rebates. The rebate application period closed in February 2024 with an outstanding response from school districts across the country seeking to purchase electric and clean school buses. Given the overwhelming demand, including in low-income communities, Tribal nations and U.S. territories, EPA doubled the amount of available funding to nearly $1 billion.

This third round of funding will build on the previous almost $2 billion investment via the 2022 Rebates and 2023 Grants to further improve air quality in and around schools, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.

The selections announced today will provide funds to school districts in 47 states and Washington D.C., along with several federally recognized Tribes and U.S. territories. Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and Tribal communities make up approximately 45 percent of the selected projects and will receive approximately 67 percent of the total funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.

The EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Department of Transportation to provide school districts with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation.

The EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses this year. There is a small subset of tentatively selected applicants still engaged in the application review process. EPA is working with them and will notify these applicants of an award if their application meets all program requirements. As additional selections are finalized, EPA will update the CSB webpage.

EPA will also make selections through additional rounds of funding, as well as through other funding programs. For example, EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program until 11:59 PM ET on July 25, 2024 – with EPA offering nearly $1 billion in available grant funding and anticipates approximately 70% of the available funding to fund new, zero-emission Class 6 or 7 school buses.  EPA encourages school districts not selected for the 2023 CSB Rebate Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in currently open funding programs, and future CSB funding rounds.

About the Clean School Bus Program

The EPA Clean School Bus Program was created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, which produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.

The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts and produce cleaner air. Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Phasing out these diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.

The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will save school districts money as they upgrade school bus fleets, replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses, while freeing up needed resources for schools.

View the full list of Clean School Bus Program awards here – epa.gov/cleanschoolbus/clean-school-bus-program-awards.

PHILADELPHIA (May 29, 2024) – Today, the Biden-Harris Administration announced the recipients of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2023 Clean School Bus Program rebate competition, funded by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. The rebate will help the Seaford School District, in Sussex County, Delaware, purchase a clean school bus.

The Program will help Seaford accelerate the transition to zero emission vehicles and replace an older, diesel fueled school bus. Diesel fueled school buses have been linked to asthma and other conditions that harm the health of students and surrounding communities. 

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan will join schoolchildren, district leaders and community members in Jackson, Miss., today to make the announcement and highlight how the program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save schools money, and better protect children’s health. The investment will also drive demand for American-made batteries and vehicles, boost domestic manufacturing, and create good-paying jobs.

“President Biden believes every child deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy life and breathe clean air, and his Investing in America agenda is designed to deliver just that,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With today’s latest round of funding, we are transforming the nation’s school bus fleet to better protect our most precious cargo—our kids—saving school districts money, improving air quality, and bolstering American manufacturing all at the same time.”
“Today’s announcement will improve outcomes for human health, the environment, and the clean energy economy,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, students in fifty school districts across the region will be able to ride to and from school on buses that produce zero emissions. This means reduced health risks associated with diesel exhaust and reduced emissions that contribute to climate change.”

In September 2023, the EPA announced the availability of at least $500 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus rebates. The rebate application period closed in February 2024 with an outstanding response from school districts across the country seeking to purchase electric and clean school buses. Given the overwhelming demand, including in low-income communities, Tribal nations and U.S. territories, the EPA doubled the amount of available funding to nearly $1 billion.

This third round of funding will build on the previous almost $2 billion investment via the 2022 Rebates and 2023 Grants to further improve air quality in and around schools, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.

The selections announced today will provide funds to school districts in 47 states and Washington D.C., along with several federally recognized Tribes and U.S. territories. Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and Tribal communities make up approximately 45 percent of the selected projects and will receive approximately 67 percent of the total funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.

The EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Department of Transportation to provide school districts with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation.

The EPA is continuing to review selected applications and may make additional awards from this announcement. The EPA is working with those applicants and will notify them of an award if their application meets all program requirements. As additional selections are finalized, the EPA will update the CSB Awards webpage.

The EPA will also make selections through additional rounds of funding, as well as through other funding programs. For example, the EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program until 11:59 PM ET on July 25, 2024 – with EPA offering up to $932 million in available grant funding and anticipates approximately 70% of the available funding to help pay for new, zero-emission Class 6 or 7 school buses.  EPA encourages school districts not selected for the 2023 CSB Rebate Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in currently open funding programs, and future CSB funding rounds.

About the Clean School Bus Program

The EPA Clean School Bus Program was created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, which produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.

The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts and produce cleaner air. Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Phasing out these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.

The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Clean School Bus Program will save school districts money as they upgrade school bus fleets, replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses, while freeing up needed resources for schools.

For more information about the Clean School Bus Awards visit: https://www.epa.gov/cleanschoolbus/clean-school-bus-program-awards.

BOISE (May 29, 2024) – Today, the Biden-Harris Administration announced the recipients of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 2023 Clean School Bus Program rebate competition. In Idaho, Boise Independent School District was selected to receive $2,760,000 in rebate funding to purchase eight electric school buses and Horseshoe Bend School District was selected to receive $400,000 to purchase two electric school buses. This funding will help Idaho accelerate the transition to zero emission vehicles and to replace older diesel school buses, which have been linked to asthma and other conditions that harm the health of students and surrounding communities.

“EPA’s Clean School Bus Program is a breath of fresh air for our students, schools and communities,” said EPA Region 10 Administrator Casey Sixkiller. “Diesel pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health, with impacts felt disproportionately in communities of color and Tribal communities. Clean School Bus grants provide much-needed resources for school districts to upgrade aging fleets, replacing diesel buses with new zero-emission and clean school buses. Pulling older diesel buses off the road will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff.”

In September 2023, the EPA announced the availability of at least $500 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus rebates. The rebate application period closed in February 2024 with an outstanding response from school districts across the country seeking to purchase electric and clean school buses. Given the overwhelming demand, including in low-income communities and Tribal nations, EPA doubled the amount of available funding to nearly $1 billion.

This third round of funding will build on the previous almost $2 billion investment via the 2022 Rebates and 2023 Grants to further improve air quality in and around schools, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.

The selections announced today will provide funds to school districts in 47 states, along with several federally recognized Tribes. Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and Tribal communities make up approximately 45 percent of the selected projects and will receive approximately 67 percent of the total funding.

EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses this year. There is a small subset of tentatively selected applicants still engaged in the application review process. EPA is working with them and will notify these applicants of an award if their application meets all program requirements. As additional selections are finalized, EPA will update the CSB webpage.

EPA will also make selections through additional rounds of funding, as well as through other funding programs. For example, EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program until July 25 – with EPA offering nearly $1 billion in available grant funding and anticipates approximately 70% of the available funding to fund new, zero-emission Class 6 or 7 school buses.  EPA encourages school districts not selected for the 2023 CSB Rebate Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in currently open funding programs, and future CSB funding rounds.

View the full list of Clean School Bus Program awards here – epa.gov/cleanschoolbus/clean-school-bus-program-awards.

CHICAGO – Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore, alongside Region 2 Administrator Lisa Garcia and Region 3 Administrator Adam Ortiz, joined Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb and other partners to highlight the important role Great Lakes restoration plays in community revitalization along the shoreline of Lake Erie.  

“After decades of industrial and economic growth, Cleveland's waterways –like many in the Great Lakes Region -- struggled to overcome the legacy pollution left behind,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. “Thanks to an all-of-government approach and the unprecedented federal funding from the Biden Administration’s Investing in America agenda, Cleveland and many other Midwest communities are working to retire the ‘rust-belt’ label once and for all.” 

“A clean and thriving waterfront is the key to unlocking our city’s full potential – it creates recreational opportunities for residents, provides tourists a reason to come visit (and spend money) during the warm months ahead, and instills a desire for businesses to develop.  The hype is real so I’m encouraging everyone to come visit and see how great the North Coast truly is here in Cleveland!” said Mayor Justin M. Bibb.  “We’re thankful for the millions of dollars the Biden Administration and EPA have provided amongst Great Lakes cities, which will go a long way to ensuring environmental justice equity across our communities.” 

EPA, state and local partners have worked together for decades to clean up the Cuyahoga River and to restore Lake Erie. Thanks to these partnerships there are now thriving fish populations and vibrant neighborhoods have sprung up where there was once only abandoned industrial properties. 

EPA recently announced that several organizations including the Ohio Lake Erie Commission will receive Great Lakes Environmental Justice Grants, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, to restore and safeguard our nation’s largest fresh surface water resources.  Ohio Lake Erie Commission and its partner, the Black Environmental Leaders Network, will use a $5.8 million grant to develop and implement an Environmental Justice Grant Program for underserved communities in Ohio’s Lake Erie watershed. 

“Because Lake Erie is one of Ohio’s greatest resources, providing drinking water to over 2.8 million people in Ohio and generating over $17 billion in travel and tourism for the state, Governor DeWine and the General Assembly invested in the H2Ohio initiative to ensure clean and safe water for Ohio. The Commission appreciates the support for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and U.S. EPA that will allow us to partner with organizations like Black Environmental Leaders and Rural Action to deepen our impact and ensure that underserved communities across Ohio’s Lake Erie shoreline will be able to implement restoration and improve water quality,” said Ohio Lake Erie Commission Director Joy Mulinex.  

“We are grateful and excited to be a key partner alongside the Ohio Lake Erie Commission and Rural Action for the Great Lakes Environmental Justice Grant Program,” said Black Environmental Leaders Network Board President Jocelyn Travis. “This initiative aligns perfectly with BEL’s commitment to addressing systemic environmental injustices. The opportunity to develop subawards that not only promote equity but also combat the disproportionate impacts of environmental issues on disadvantaged communities is crucial. It enables us to leverage our strengths and ensure that these communities have direct access to the resources needed to protect and restore the Great Lakes ecosystem. We are honored to play a pivotal role in this transformative effort, which promises to make significant strides towards true environmental justice.” 

Cleveland was the first stop on a multiday tour as EPA officials visit communities along the Lake Erie shoreline to see how they are tackling redevelopment challenges. Later in Ashtabula, city manager Jim Timonere showcased how the Ashtabula River cleanup is jumpstarting the creation of a vibrant, new entertainment district at its historic harbor. Later this week, the regional administrators will travel to Erie, Pennsylvania, and then Buffalo, New York. 

Additional Background 

Since 2010, EPA’s Great Lakes Restoration Initiative has funded more than 7,500 restoration and protection projects totaling more than $3.7 billion. 

Read more about the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. 

Sign up for the Great Lakes News email list to get information about funding opportunities to support Great Lakes environmental work and get updates about Great Lakes environmental projects.  

CHICAGO (May 29, 2024) – Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced 28 school districts across Illinois will benefit from the 2023 Clean School Bus Program rebate competition, funded by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. The program will help Illinois accelerate the transition to zero emission vehicles and to replace existing school buses, which have been linked to asthma and other conditions that harm the health of students and surrounding communities. 

• Washington SD 52 has been selected to receive $400,000 in rebate funding to purchase 2 clean school buses. 
• A-C Central CUSD 262 has been selected to receive $420,000 in rebate funding to purchase 2 clean school buses. 
• Illini Bluffs CUSD 327 has been selected to receive $600,000 in rebate funding to purchase 3 clean school buses. 
• McLean County USD 5 has been selected to receive $1,060,000 in rebate funding to purchase 5 clean school buses. 
• Tremont CUSD 702 has been selected to receive $565,000 in rebate funding to purchase 3 clean school buses. 
• Aurora West USD 129 has been selected to receive $5,000,000 in rebate funding to purchase 25 clean school buses. 
• Naperville CUSD 203 has been selected to receive $1,000,000 in rebate funding to purchase 5 clean school buses. 
• Springfield SD 186 has been selected to receive $7,935,000 in rebate funding to purchase 23 clean school buses. 
• Hoover-Schrum Memorial SD 157 has been selected to receive $1,725,000 in rebate funding to purchase 5 clean school buses. 
• Harlem UD 122 has been selected to receive $800,000 in rebate funding to purchase 4 clean school buses. 
• Hoopeston Area CUSD 11 has been selected to receive $690,000 in rebate funding to purchase 2 clean school buses. 
• Bureau Valley CUSD 340 has been selected to receive $1,725,000 in rebate funding to purchase 5 clean school buses. 
• Township HSD 113 has been selected to receive $565,000 in rebate funding to purchase 3 clean school buses. 
• Wethersfield CUSD 230 has been selected to receive $620,000 in rebate funding to purchase 3 clean school buses. 
• Zion-Benton Township HSD 126 has been selected to receive $400,000 in rebate funding to purchase 2 clean school buses. 
• Lansing SD 158 has been selected to receive $2,760,000 in rebate funding to purchase 8 clean school buses. 
• Grayville CUSD 1 has been selected to receive $690,000 in rebate funding to purchase 2 clean school buses. 
• Vienna HSD 133 has been selected to receive $400,000 in rebate funding to purchase 2 clean school buses. 
• Urbana SD 116 has been selected to receive $3,060,000 in rebate funding to purchase 15 clean school buses. 
• Manteno CUSD 5 has been selected to receive $200,000 in rebate funding to purchase 1 clean school bus. 
• River Trails SD 26 has been selected to receive $2,020,200 in rebate funding to purchase 10 clean school buses. 
• United Township HSD 30 has been selected to receive $840,000 in rebate funding to purchase 4 clean school buses. 
• Palatine CCSD 15 has been selected to receive $5,000,000 in rebate funding to purchase 25 clean school buses. 
• Peoria SD 150 has been selected to receive $4,830,000 in rebate funding to purchase 14 clean school buses. 
• Edwardsville CUSD 7 has been selected to receive $400,000 in rebate funding to purchase 2 clean school buses. 
• Eldorado CUSD 4 has been selected to receive $1,035,000 in rebate funding to purchase 3 clean school buses. 
• Du Quoin CUSD 300 has been selected to receive $2,620,000 in rebate funding to purchase 8 clean school buses. 
• Forest Park SD 91 has been selected to receive $1,040,000 in rebate funding to purchase 5 clean school buses. 
   

“President Biden believes every child deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy life and breathe clean air, and his Investing in America agenda is designed to deliver just that,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With today’s latest round of funding, we are transforming the nation’s school bus fleet to better protect our most precious cargo—our kids—saving school districts money, improving air quality, and bolstering American manufacturing all at the same time.” 

“Today’s Clean School Bus announcement underscores EPA’s commitment to protecting both human health and the environment, especially for the most vulnerable among us,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. “Thanks to the unprecedented funding made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, more students throughout the Great Lakes region will have access to cleaner, safer school transportation.”    

“No child should have to breathe diesel fumes on their way to school. These School Bus Grants represent a commitment to a healthier, greener future for our children,” said Sen. Dick Durbin. “By transitioning to electric school buses, we are reducing harmful diesel pollution and investing in the sustainability of our communities. I am glad to see that more Illinois School Districts will receive this funding and encourage every Illinois School District to apply for the next round. This marks a significant step forward in our collective responsibility to provide a healthier and more environmentally conscious education system for generations to come.” 

“Thanks to President Joe Biden’s historic Infrastructure Law, millions of dollars will soon be distributed through the Clean School Bus Program to replace dirty diesel school buses with clean and zero-emission buses. Every child deserves a healthy future,” said Rep. Jan Schakowsky. “This investment is a critical step in the fight against climate change and will improve air quality not only in Illinois, but across the nation. I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress to support common sense measures that protect the right of all, especially our children, to a safe and habitable climate.” 

“Clean School Bus rebates are essential to eventually ending harmful pollution brought on by our nation’s school buses. Our students and communities deserve to breathe clean, fresh air and these grants will begin to make that a reality. Beyond that, these grants will kickstart the transition away from fossil fuels and drive the nation to invest in clean, reliable energy that will also keep our children safe,” said Rep. Mike Quigley. 

"I’m thrilled that so many communities across Illinois are receiving clean and zero-emission school buses thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” said Rep. Bill Foster. “Investing in zero-emission vehicles will improve the quality of the air that our children breathe and help combat the climate crisis, all while creating good-paying manufacturing jobs.” 

"I am pleased that the funding I worked to pass in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is helping communities across Illinois upgrade to clean and zero-emission school buses," said Rep. Robin Kelly. "The Clean School Bus Program is equipping our school districts with the vital resources they need to replace aging vehicle inventory, lower emissions, and promote student safety."  

“I’m thrilled that Illinois will receive federal funding for new zero-emission school buses, helping us in our fight against the climate crisis. By transitioning away from diesel-fueled vehicles, we are prioritizing the health of our students, communities, and planet,” said Rep. Sean Casten.  

“I am proud to have worked with my Illinois delegation colleagues to advocate for another round of investments from the Clean School Bus Program, on top of the $42 million that our state received earlier this year. I will continue to fight for the equitable implementation of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and more projects like this that will help provide a cleaner, healthier future for young people,” said Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García.   

“Replacing diesel fueled buses with new, clean energy alternatives will reduce exposure to air pollution for more than 25 million children and drivers across the country who are breathing dirty air on their daily rides to and from school,” said Rep. Lauren Underwood. “Clean energy investments like these are creating a brighter future for our kids, and a cleaner, healthier environment for our families. I’m so proud to bring this investment home to northern Illinois.” 

“Ensuring that our students get to and from school in a safe and healthy way should be one of our top priorities,” said Rep. Nikki Budzinski. “I’m excited to join the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in announcing additional resources for Illinois as a part of the Clean School Bus Program. These resources will help our communities buy new, clean school buses that not only help the environment, but protect students’ health from tailpipe emissions.” 

“The Clean School Bus Program Rebates is a step toward meeting our local and state goal of zero carbon emissions. The program supports incorporating sustainability efforts into our students and families’ daily lives while strengthening our clean energy infrastructure. I am honored that our local school districts have been selected to participate in this innovative program and look forward to working with the Environmental Protection Agency to build a healthier, climate-resilient future," said Rep. Delia Ramirez. 

“U.S. EPA’s Clean School Bus Program is making a positive impact in Illinois by providing cleaner transportation for our state’s most vulnerable residents, our students,” said Illinois EPA Director John J. Kim.“We continue to be encouraged by the interest of so many school districts ready to transition to electric school buses, which not only benefits the districts, but also the environment for everyone in their region.” 

In September 2023, the EPA announced the availability of at least $500 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus rebates. The rebate application period closed in February 2024 with an outstanding response from school districts across the country seeking to purchase electric and clean school buses. Given the overwhelming demand, including in low-income communities, Tribal nations and U.S. territories, EPA doubled the amount of available funding to nearly $1 billion.  

This third round of funding will build on the previous almost $2 billion investment via the 2022 Rebates and 2023 Grants to further improve air quality in and around schools, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future. 

The selections announced today will provide funds to school districts in 47 states and Washington D.C., along with several federally recognized Tribes and U.S. territories. Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and Tribal communities make up approximately 45 percent of the selected projects and will receive approximately 67 percent of the total funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.  

The EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Department of Transportation to provide school districts with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. 

EPA is continuing to review selected applications and may make additional awards from this announcement. The Agency is working with those applicants and will notify them of an award if their application meets all program requirements. As additional selections are finalized, the EPA will update the CSB Awards webpage. 

EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program until 11:59 PM ET on July 25, 2024 – with EPA offering up $932 million in available grant funding and anticipates approximately 70% of the available funding to help pay for new, zero-emission Class 6 or 7 school buses.  EPA encourages school districts not selected for the 2023 CSB Rebate Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in currently open funding programs, and future CSB funding rounds. 

About the Clean School Bus Program 

The EPA Clean School Bus Program was created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, which produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors. 

The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts and produce cleaner air. Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Phasing out these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.  

The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will save school districts money as they upgrade school bus fleets, replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses, while freeing up needed resources for schools. 

View the full list of Clean School Bus Program awards.   

###

PHILADELPHIA (May 29, 2024) – Today, the Biden-Harris Administration announced the recipients of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2023 Clean School Bus Program rebate competition, funded by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. The rebates will help District of Columbia Public Schools purchase 25 clean school busses.

The Program will help the District accelerate the transition to zero emission vehicles and to replace older, diesel fueled school buses, which  have been linked to asthma and other conditions that harm the health of students and surrounding communities.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan will join schoolchildren, district leaders and community members in Jackson, Miss., today to make the announcement and highlight how the program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save schools money, and better protect children’s health. The investment will also drive demand for American-made batteries and vehicles, boost domestic manufacturing, and create good-paying jobs.

“President Biden believes every child deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy life and breathe clean air, and his Investing in America agenda is designed to deliver just that,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With today’s latest round of funding, we are transforming the nation’s school bus fleet to better protect our most precious cargo—our kids—saving school districts money, improving air quality, and bolstering American manufacturing all at the same time.”

“Today’s announcement will improve outcomes for human health, the environment, and the clean energy economy,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, students in fifty school districts across the region will be able to ride to and from school on buses that produce zero emissions. This means reduced health risks associated with diesel exhaust and reduced emissions that contribute to climate change.”

In September 2023, the EPA announced the availability of at least $500 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus rebates. The rebate application period closed in February 2024 with an outstanding response from school districts across the country seeking to purchase electric and clean school buses. Given the overwhelming demand, including in low-income communities, Tribal nations and U.S. territories, the EPA doubled the amount of available funding to nearly $1 billion.

This third round of funding will build on the previous almost $2 billion investment via the 2022 Rebates and 2023 Grants to further improve air quality in and around schools, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.

The selections announced today will provide funds to school districts in 47 states and Washington D.C., along with several federally recognized Tribes and U.S. territories. Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and Tribal communities make up approximately 45 percent of the selected projects and will receive approximately 67 percent of the total funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.

The EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Department of Transportation to provide school districts with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation.

The EPA is continuing to review selected applications and may make additional awards from this announcement. The EPA is working with those applicants and will notify them of an award if their application meets all program requirements. As additional selections are finalized, the EPA will update the CSB Awards webpage.

The EPA will also make selections through additional rounds of funding, as well as through other funding programs. For example, the EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program until 11:59 PM ET on July 25, 2024 – with EPA offering up to $932 million in available grant funding and anticipates approximately 70% of the available funding to help pay for new, zero-emission Class 6 or 7 school buses.  EPA encourages school districts not selected for the 2023 CSB Rebate Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in currently open funding programs, and future CSB funding rounds.

About the Clean School Bus Program

The EPA Clean School Bus Program was created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, which produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.

The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts and produce cleaner air. Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Phasing out these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.

The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Clean School Bus Program will save school districts money as they upgrade school bus fleets, replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses, while freeing up needed resources for schools.

For more information about the Clean School Bus Awards visit: https://www.epa.gov/cleanschoolbus/clean-school-bus-program-awards.

BOSTON (May 29, 2024) – Today, the Biden-Harris Administration announced the recipients of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) 2023 Clean School Bus Program rebate competition, funded by President Biden's Investing in America agenda. The rebates will help selectees purchase 110 clean school buses in nine school districts across New Hampshire. The Clean School Bus Program will help New Hampshire accelerate the transition to zero-emission vehicles and replace older, diesel-fueled school buses, which have been linked to asthma and other conditions that harm the health of students and surrounding communities.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan, NAACP President Derrick Johnson, and U.S. Representative Bennie Thompson joined schoolchildren, district leaders, and community members in Jackson, Mississippi, to make the announcement and highlight how the program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save schools money, and better protect children's health, especially in communities already overburdened by pollution. The investment will also drive demand for American-made batteries and vehicles, boost domestic manufacturing, and create good-paying jobs for Americans.

"President Biden believes every child deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy life and breathe clean air, and his Investing in America agenda is designed to deliver just that," said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. "With today's latest round of funding, we are transforming the nation's school bus fleet to better protect our most precious cargo—our kids—saving school districts money, improving air quality, and bolstering American manufacturing all at the same time."

"Today's announcement helps ensure that nine school districts in New Hampshire can breathe easier and benefit from the reduced emissions of 110 clean school buses," said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "One hundred-and-ten clean school buses means 110 fewer tailpipes blowing diesel exhaust and particulate matter into our air. It's a win-win-win-win-win-win-win—cleaner air, healthier environment, fighting the climate crisis, parents not worrying that their kids are breathing in fumes as a diesel bus comes by, clean energy jobs, and school districts saving money. Our Clean School Bus program is making a real difference in the lives of children and families across New England."

"I'm thrilled to see more than $30 million coming to nine Granite State school districts for new, zero-emission electric school buses. Replacing older diesel buses makes a big difference for kids' health and air quality in our communities. This funding is another great example of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law making lasting investments in the future of New Hampshire communities," said U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen.

"Clean energy school buses are good for students' health, lower costs for our communities, and help us combat climate change," said U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan. "I am pleased that the bipartisan infrastructure law is continuing to deliver for New Hampshire by increasing the number of electric school buses in our state."

"Transitioning our transportation sector to clean, renewable energy is key to mitigating the worst impacts of climate change, and our local communities and schools can play a significant role in cutting harmful emissions," said U.S. Representative Ann Kuster. "These resources made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will improve the health and well-being of our children and environment while lowering fuel and maintenance costs for communities."

"Clean school buses will benefit our children, environment, and local communities by providing cleaner air, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and saving taxpayer dollars," said U.S. Representative Chris Pappas. "This smart investment will support the acquisition of over a hundred clean school buses across New Hampshire that are safer for children and more reliable for our school districts. I helped pass the bipartisan infrastructure law that delivered these federal funds back to our state, and I will continue supporting efforts that invest in public health and our future."

The 2023 Clean School Bus rebates will help selectees purchase 110 clean school buses in nine school districts across New Hampshire:

• Litchfield SAU Office has been selected to receive $2,760,000 in rebate funding to purchase eight clean school buses.
• Derry Cooperative SAU Office has been selected to receive $8,665,000 in rebate funding to purchase 25 clean school buses.
• Hudson School District has been selected to receive $3,200,000 in rebate funding to purchase 16 clean school buses.
• Concord SAU Office has been selected to receive $1,035,000 in rebate funding to purchase three clean school buses.
• Nashua SAU Office has been selected to receive $6,830,000 in rebate funding to purchase 22 clean school buses.
• Lisbon Regional School District has been selected to receive $345,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus.
• Moultonborough School District has been selected to receive $2,415,000 in rebate funding to purchase seven clean school buses.
• Hanover School District has been selected to receive $600,000 in rebate funding to purchase three clean school buses.
• Pembroke School District has been selected to receive $5,000,000 in rebate funding to purchase 25 clean school buses.

In September 2023, the EPA announced the availability of at least $500 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus rebates. The rebate application period closed in February 2024 with an overwhelming response from school districts across the country seeking to purchase electric and clean school buses. Given the level of demand, including from low-income communities, Tribal nations and U.S. territories, the EPA doubled the initial amount of available funding in this round to a total of nearly $1 billion.

This third round of funding will build on the previous investments of almost $2 billion via the Clean School Bus Program's 2022 Rebates and 2023 Grants to further improve air quality in and around schools, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America's leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.

The selections announced today will provide funds to school districts in 47 states and Washington D.C., along with several federally recognized Tribes and U.S. territories. Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and Tribal communities make up approximately 45 percent of the selected projects and will receive approximately 67 percent of the total funding. The program advances President Biden's Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.

The EPA is also partnering with other federal agencies through the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide school districts with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation.

The EPA is continuing to review selected applications and may make additional awards from this announcement. The EPA is working with those applicants and will notify them of an award if their application meets all program requirements. As additional selections are finalized, the EPA will update the CSB Awards webpage.

The EPA will also make selections through additional rounds of funding, as well as through other funding programs. For example, the EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program until 11:59 PM ET on July 25, 2024—with the EPA offering up to $932 million in available grant funding and anticipates approximately 70 percent of the available funding to help pay for new, zero-emission Class 6 or 7 school buses.The EPA encourages school districts not selected for the 2023 CSB Rebate Program—and those that did not apply—to participate in currently open funding programs, and future CSB funding rounds.

About the Clean School Bus Program

The EPA Clean School Bus Program was created by President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation's fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, which produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.

The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts and produce cleaner air. Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students' health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Phasing out these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.

The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Clean School Bus Program will save school districts money as they upgrade school bus fleets, replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses, while freeing up needed resources for schools.

View the full list of Clean School Bus Program awards.

Video: EPA Clean School Bus | R1 "Wheels on the Bus" Sing-Along

For materials to engage community members about clean school buses, as well as resources for students, visit: https://www.epa.gov/cleanschoolbus/resources-engage-your-community.

BOSTON (May 29, 2024) – Today, the Biden-Harris Administration announced the recipients of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) 2023 Clean School Bus Program rebate competition, funded by President Biden's Investing in America agenda. The rebates will help selectees purchase over 90 clean school buses in six school districts across Connecticut. The Clean School Bus Program will help Connecticut accelerate the transition to zero-emission vehicles and replace older, diesel-fueled school buses, which have been linked to asthma and other conditions that harm the health of students and surrounding communities.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan, NAACP President Derrick Johnson, and U.S. Representative Bennie Thompson joined schoolchildren, district leaders, and community members in Jackson, Mississippi, to make the announcement and highlight how the program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save schools money, and better protect children's health, especially in communities already overburdened by pollution. The investment will also drive demand for American-made batteries and vehicles, boost domestic manufacturing, and create good-paying jobs for Americans.

"President Biden believes every child deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy life and breathe clean air, and his Investing in America agenda is designed to deliver just that," said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. "With today's latest round of funding, we are transforming the nation's school bus fleet to better protect our most precious cargo—our kids—saving school districts money, improving air quality, and bolstering American manufacturing all at the same time."

"Today's announcement helps ensure that six school districts in Connecticut can breathe easier and benefit from the reduced emissions of over 90 clean school buses," said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "Ninety clean school buses means 90 fewer tailpipes blowing diesel exhaust and particulate matter into our air. It's a win-win-win-win-win-win-win—cleaner air, healthier environment, fighting the climate crisis, parents not worrying that their kids are breathing in fumes as a diesel bus comes by, clean energy jobs, and school districts saving money. Our Clean School Bus program is making a real difference in the lives of children and families across New England."

"This $21.5 million from the Environmental Protection Agency will allow six school districts across Connecticut to ditch dirty diesel buses and purchase 91 zero emission environmentally friendly school buses. This incredible investment will save school districts money, improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. I am thrilled to see Connecticut schools were awarded these competitive grants and will keep fighting for more federal investments in clean transportation," said U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal.

"Replacing gas guzzling school buses with cleaner alternatives is key to both tackling the climate crisis and improving the health of our kids and communities," said U.S. Senator Chris Murphy. "Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this $21.5 million in rebate funding from the EPA's Clean School Bus program will help towns across Connecticut replace 91 existing buses with zero-emission and low-emission models so our kids, bus drivers, and communities can enjoy a cleaner, healthier environment for years to come."

"This new funding awarded to Branford by the EPA's Clean School Bus Program, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is a testament to our shared commitment to safeguarding the health and safety of our students, combatting climate change, and advancing sustainable energy breakthroughs," said U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro. "We must fight climate change and preserve a future for generations to come. Branford, along with the five other Connecticut communities in line to receive this funding, are joining nine school districts the state who have already started to transition their bus fleets through this critical funding provided in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. By reducing air pollution through bus modernization, we tackle the climate crisis, and improve public health."

"The Connecticut delegation worked together to secure critical funding to help school districts replace diesel-fueled buses with low-emission clean school buses. These funds will help reduce emissions in our state and ensure students in East Hartford and West Hartford breathe clean air, protecting children from asthma and other health conditions on their ride to school," said U.S. Representative John B. Larson.

"Our students deserve a safe, efficient way to get to school that does not endanger the planet and compromise their future. That's why I'm thrilled to see the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continue to deliver for Southwest Connecticut by providing nearly $12 million to Bridgeport, Fairfield, and Ridgefield through the EPA's Clean School Bus Program. This federal funding will replace existing, gas-guzzling school buses with zero-emission vehicles so families can send their children to school with peace of mind," said U.S. Representative Jim Himes.

The 2023 Clean School Bus rebates will help selectees purchase 91 clean school buses in six school districts across Connecticut:

• Ridgefield School District has been selected to receive $1,055,000 in rebate funding to purchase seven clean school buses.
• Fairfield School District has been selected to receive $2,000,000 in rebate funding to purchase 10 clean school buses.
• Branford School District has been selected to receive $5,000,000 in rebate funding to purchase 25 clean school buses.
• Bridgeport School District has been selected to receive $8,625,000 in rebate funding to purchase 25 clean school buses.
• West Hartford School District has been selected to receive $4,400,000 in rebate funding to purchase 22 clean school buses.
• East Hartford School District has been selected to receive $400,000 in rebate funding to purchase two clean school buses.

In September 2023, the EPA announced the availability of at least $500 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus rebates. The rebate application period closed in February 2024 with an overwhelming response from school districts across the country seeking to purchase electric and clean school buses. Given the level of demand, including from low-income communities, Tribal nations and U.S. territories, the EPA doubled the initial amount of available funding in this round to a total of nearly $1 billion.

This third round of funding will build on the previous investments of almost $2 billion via the Clean School Bus Program's 2022 Rebates and 2023 Grants to further improve air quality in and around schools, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America's leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.

The selections announced today will provide funds to school districts in 47 states and Washington D.C., along with several federally recognized Tribes and U.S. territories. Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and Tribal communities make up approximately 45 percent of the selected projects and will receive approximately 67 percent of the total funding. The program advances President Biden's Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.

The EPA is also partnering with other federal agencies through the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide school districts with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation.

The EPA is continuing to review selected applications and may make additional awards from this announcement. The EPA is working with those applicants and will notify them of an award if their application meets all program requirements. As additional selections are finalized, the EPA will update the CSB Awards webpage.

The EPA will also make selections through additional rounds of funding, as well as through other funding programs. For example, the EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program until 11:59 PM ET on July 25, 2024—with the EPA offering up to $932 million in available grant funding and anticipates approximately 70 percent of the available funding to help pay for new, zero-emission Class 6 or 7 school buses.The EPA encourages school districts not selected for the 2023 CSB Rebate Program—and those that did not apply—to participate in currently open funding programs, and future CSB funding rounds.

About the Clean School Bus Program

The EPA Clean School Bus Program was created by President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation's fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, which produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.

The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts and produce cleaner air. Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students' health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Phasing out these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.

The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Clean School Bus Program will save school districts money as they upgrade school bus fleets, replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses, while freeing up needed resources for schools.

View the full list of Clean School Bus Program awards.

Video: EPA Clean School Bus | R1 "Wheels on the Bus" Sing-Along

For materials to engage community members about clean school buses, as well as resources for students, visit: https://www.epa.gov/cleanschoolbus/resources-engage-your-community.