Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy recently revoked Biden-era memos that emphasized considering social justice and environmental factors in infrastructure projects. The memos issued by the Biden administration aimed to incorporate disadvantaged and under-represented groups in infrastructure updates while also addressing environmental impacts and climate change concerns. Duffy’s office criticized these memos for imposing unnecessary costs related to greenhouse gas emissions and equity initiatives, labeling them as federal overreach.

The federal government’s focus on addressing environmental health issues in marginalized communities traces back to previous administrations, with Biden expanding these efforts through targeted investments and initiatives like the Justice40 program. These communities, notably Black, Latino, Indigenous, and lower-income neighborhoods, face disproportionate impacts from pollution sources like highways and petrochemical plants, exacerbating health risks and vulnerability to climate change.

Duffy’s decision aligns with the Trump administration’s rollback of environmental justice policies and diversity initiatives, signaling a shift away from prioritizing equitable infrastructure development. Critics, such as Roishetta Ozane from the Vessel Project of Louisiana, express concern over this regression in policy, emphasizing the importance of inclusive and sustainable infrastructure investments for all communities. Despite these changes, voices advocating for a more just and sustainable future continue to push for meaningful change in infrastructure planning and development.