Congressman Watson Coleman Introduces Stay Cool Act to Combat Heat Emergencies
On May 22, 2026, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) reintroduced the Stay Cool Act, aimed at addressing the rising threat of heat-related emergencies. Recent temperature spikes in New Jersey, reaching highs of 99 degrees, exemplify the alarming trend of increasing heat across the country.
The bill seeks to protect vulnerable populations—children, the elderly, and outdoor workers—who are at higher risk of heat-related ailments, such as heat stroke and worsened chronic conditions. The growing severity of heat emergencies, particularly in low-income and minority communities, calls for comprehensive strategies to mitigate the impact of extreme heat.
The Stay Cool Act, supported by various environmental and health organizations, emphasizes the need for improved infrastructure, such as cooling centers and urban heat mitigation projects, including green spaces and tree planting. It aims to establish federal heat response systems, provide grants for community resilience, and ensure adequate cooling in public housing.
Key components of the legislation include:
- Federal Heat Response Systems: Development of a national heat ranking and tracking system for heat-related deaths.
- Grants for Cooling Centers: Financial support for HVAC systems and public awareness initiatives.
- Enhanced Support for Low-Income Households: Inclusion of cooling costs in utility allowances and support for housing cooling systems.
- Incentives for Nonprofits: Payroll tax credits for organizations operating as cooling centers during emergencies.
Watson Coleman stressed the urgent need for action as climate change makes extreme heat a more frequent and severe threat. The bill aims to provide the necessary resources to ensure the safety and health of communities facing this public health crisis.
