The LIFT Act is a funding program that helps communities prepare to build climate-resistant infrastructure. Here's what it does: The Department of Commerce will give out grants to help pay for the planning and preparation work that needs to happen before actual construction begins. This includes things like studying the land, getting environmental reviews done, designing projects, and figuring out how to pay for everything. Think of it as funding the "getting ready" phase before you break ground on a new bridge, water system, or other infrastructure that can withstand climate impacts like flooding or extreme weather.

The money can go to a wide range of organizations—local governments, states, Native American tribes, colleges and universities, economic development groups, and even individuals. The bill also provides technical assistance, meaning experts can help these groups understand how to apply for grants and plan their projects properly. Essentially, this act removes a major barrier for communities that want to build climate-resilient infrastructure but don't have the upfront money to do all the necessary planning and preparation work.

LIFT Act

Markey, Edward J.

Local Infrastructure Funding &amp; Technical Assistance Act or the LIFT Act This bill authorizes the Department of Commerce to provide grants under the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 for predevelopment projects&#8212;measures required to be completed before construction of resilient climate infrastructure occurs&#8212;and related technical assistance. Grants may be provided to economic development districts, states, Indian tribes, local governments, institutions of higher education, individuals, and other organizations as specified by the bill.