WASHINGTON, D.C.  –  The National Wildlife Federation’s Environmental Justice, Climate, and Community Revitalization Program gathered more than 40 Mississippi mayors, city clerks, county commissioners, judges and state representatives for an interactive legislative briefing on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

Led by Andrew Jenkins, president of AJA Management & Technical Services, and moderated by Rep. De’Keither Stamps (D-Miss.), the discussion centered on how to utilize ARPA to effectuate transformational changes within local communities. Among the participants was Mayor Melanie Townsend-Blackman for the city of Drew, a small town located in rural Mississippi.

“The reason we organized this briefing was because we felt as though there wasn’t enough understanding among local leaders about the various resources and programs stemming from ARPA,” said Rep. De’Keither Stamps. “It is critical to cultivate opportunities for local officials to receive technical assistance and guidance as we work together to coordinate and maximize opportunities stemming from state and federal programs.”

“The Environmental Justice, Climate, and Community Revitalization Program connects federal legislation and advocacy opportunities to what is needed among frontline and fence-line communities,” said Simone Lightfoot, associate vice president of environmental justice and climate justice for the National Wildlife Federation. “Not only do we elevate the issue priorities and solutions from environmental justice communities to influence federal policies, but we take it a step further and ensure resources actually reach these communities.”

The American Rescue Plan Act 2021 is a $1.9 trillion economic stimulus bill to provide additional relief to address the continued impact of COVID-19 on the economy, public health, state and local governments, individuals and businesses.

Learn more about the Environmental Justice, Climate, and Community Revitalization Program.