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Why This Matters

Brownfields—vacant or underutilized properties complicated by environmental contamination—exist in nearly every community. They are often former industrial sites that require significant cleanup before they can be redeveloped into productive spaces like housing, retail, or community facilities. However, the high costs of remediation often deter private investment.

The Brownfields Redevelopment Tax Incentive directly addresses this challenge by allowing developers to fully deduct the cleanup costs of contaminated sites in the year the expenses are incurred, rather than spreading them out over a decade. This provision significantly reduces financial barriers, making brownfield redevelopment more attractive and feasible.

The proven impact of the Brownfields Tax Incentive

Originally passed in 1997, this tax incentive played a pivotal role in revitalizing contaminated properties across the U.S. Before it expired in 2012, it was used more than 625 times in over 40 states, successfully reducing remediation costs and unlocking economic potential in generally underserved communities and neighborhoods. By restoring this incentive, we can:

• Encourage private sector investment in contaminated and underutilized sites.
• Reduce environmental hazards and promote healthier communities.
• Create jobs and boost local economies through new developments.
• Ensure fairness by allowing voluntary brownfield redevelopers to expense remediation costs—just as polluters currently can.

Your voice is needed!

We need your help to galvanize support for H.R. 815 and ensure Congress takes action in an upcoming tax package to restore this vital tool for spurring economic growth and improving community well-being. Whether you’re an individual, business, or organization, your advocacy is crucial.

Take action today:

1. Contact your representatives and urge them to support or cosponsor H.R. 815.
2. Spread the word—share this post and engage your networks in this critical effort.

For more information on the Brownfields Redevelopment Tax Incentive and how you can help, check out our fact sheet here.

Together, we can transform contaminated sites into thriving spaces, fostering economic growth and community well-being for generations to come.

For questions or additional ways to support, please visit the National Brownfields Coalition webpage.