Strengthening Air Pollution Permitting Amendment Act of 2026

This bill strengthens DC's air pollution permitting system to directly benefit communities near industrial facilities, particularly Ward 5 residents who live adjacent to asphalt and concrete plants. It requires the District Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) to process permits within 6 months, address complaints within 60 days, and include new requirements like emissions limits for facility vehicles, community engagement plans, and operational hours. The bill also creates penalties such as 6-month contract bans for facilities with two violations in a year and directs fines toward environmental remediation in heavily impacted neighborhoods. These changes aim to reduce delays, improve enforcement, and prioritize community health in air quality management.