Green New Deal for Public Schools Act
The source supplies the latest action, but no lifecycle stage.
Latest action (27 Jul 2026): Referred to the Committee on Education and Workforce, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
What this bill does
H.R. 9959, the "Green New Deal for Public Schools Act," proposes establishing programs and grants aimed at improving public school facilities. The bill would create an Office of Sustainable Schools within the Department of Education and establish grants for "healthy green retrofits" and the construction of new "healthy zero-carbon schools." These grants could fund projects to improve air quality, energy efficiency, water systems, and overall building safety and comfort. The bill also defines terms related to climate justice and environmental justice.
The bill would primarily affect local educational agencies, public elementary and secondary schools, and schools funded by the Bureau of Indian Education. It prioritizes schools ranked as most vulnerable based on a Social Vulnerability Index. The initiative includes provisions for community engagement in planning, local hiring goals, and prioritizing jobs for disadvantaged individuals and communities. For Bureau of Indian Education schools, funding and technical assistance would be administered in accordance with tribal sovereignty.
This bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on July 27, 2026, by Representative Pramila Jayapal. It has been referred to the House Committees on Education and Workforce and Energy and Commerce. As of its introduction, no further actions have been taken.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Timeline
27 Jul 2026
Referred to the Committee on Education and Workforce, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Common questions
- What does H.R. 9959 do?
- H.R. 9959, the "Green New Deal for Public Schools Act," proposes establishing programs and grants aimed at improving public school facilities. The bill would create an Office of Sustainable Schools within the Department of Education and establish grants for "healthy green retrofits" and the construction of new "healthy zero-carbon schools." These grants could fund projects to improve air quality, energy efficiency, water systems, and overall building safety and comfort. The bill also defines terms related to climate justice and environmental justice. The bill would primarily affect local educational agencies, public elementary and secondary schools, and schools funded by the Bureau of Indian Education. It prioritizes schools ranked as most vulnerable based on a Social Vulnerability Index. The initiative includes provisions for community engagement in planning, local hiring goals, and prioritizing jobs for disadvantaged individuals and communities. For Bureau of Indian Education schools, funding and technical assistance would be administered in accordance with tribal sovereignty. This bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on July 27, 2026, by Representative Pramila Jayapal. It has been referred to the House Committees on Education and Workforce and Energy and Commerce. As of its introduction, no further actions have been taken.
- Has H.R. 9959 become law?
- The source does not supply a confirmed lifecycle stage for H.R. 9959. Check the latest action and official source below.
- Who sponsored H.R. 9959?
- H.R. 9959 was sponsored by Rep. Jayapal, Pramila [D-WA-7] (D-WA), with 18 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on H.R. 9959?
- Referred to the Committee on Education and Workforce, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. (27 Jul 2026).
Related bills in Education
RISE Act
Civic Literacy in Higher Education Act
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Campus Accountability and Safety Act of 2026
More bills from Rep. Jayapal, Pramila [D-WA-7]
South Asian Heart Health Awareness and Research Act of 2026
GREEN Hospitals Act
Health Over Wealth Act
Orlin’s Law
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