Permitting bill could speed energy projects, but draws critics
A bipartisan group of senators introduced a 417-page permitting reform bill intended to accelerate approvals for energy and infrastructure projects. Environmental groups argue the proposal could weaken reviews and protections for communities, wildlife, clean air and water, while supporters say it could lower electricity costs and expand clean energy, including by requiring data centers to pay their fair share.
A bipartisan group of four senior senators introduced legislation to overhaul federal permitting for energy and infrastructure projects. The bill would limit or streamline aspects of environmental reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act, which supporters say have caused costly delays and opponents say are essential to protecting communities, wildlife and natural resources.
Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., said the measure could reduce electricity costs, expand clean power and require data centers to pay more of their share of grid costs. Environmental advocates, including the Center for Biological Diversity, Western Environmental Law Center and Sierra Club, warned that the legislation could speed approval of polluting projects and benefit oil and gas interests. The bill faces negotiations, amendments and uncertain prospects in the House before it could become law.