The Inflation Reduction Act—passed by Senate and House Democrats and signed into law by President Joe Biden on August 16, 2022—makes landmark investments across a host of sectors to tackle climate change and support the creation of good union jobs across the country. This includes a new program: the $5 billion Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) program at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for states, municipalities, and Tribes to develop and implement plans to reduce greenhouse gas pollution.

This user guide is intended to support states and municipalities in crafting their applications for these implementation grants. The user guide can support applicants in understanding key components and criteria of the CPRG implementation grant application at the intersection between good jobs, a stable climate, a clean environment, and a fair and just economy. While this user guide provides a brief overview of all application criteria, it goes in depth on how to create high-quality jobs, engage communities, and develop community benefits.