On The Front Burner: Energy Permitting Reform

Energy permitting reform is one of the hottest topics in Congress and state houses nationwide. Federal legislation is building momentum, while parallel efforts at streamlining energy approvals have also emerged at the state level. Though the fate of pending bills remains uncertain, changes could come as early as the end of 2024.

Federal Permitting Bills

In late July, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee approved a bipartisan bill that would accelerate federal permitting, siting, and environmental reviews for energy infrastructure projects. The bill, S. 4753, is sponsored by Senators Joe Manchin (I-WV) and John Barrasso (R-WY). It would, among other things, reduce the timeframes for federal agency approvals of renewable energy, critical mineral mining, and transmission lines; narrow the statute of limitations for lawsuits challenging project approvals; and open up additional federal lands to coal, oil, and natural gas production.