Senate advances energy permitting bill opposed by some Democrats, tribes
XLE•The Senate voted 73-25 to advance debate on a bipartisan energy permitting bill that would speed approvals for infrastructure projects and require large data centers to pay more for grid upgrades. The bill still faces opposition from environmental and tribal groups and would need House approval.
1. Debate advances
The Senate voted 73-25 to invoke cloture on a motion to proceed to the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act, clearing the way for debate. The bill, co-authored by Democratic Senators Martin Heinrich and Sheldon Whitehouse and Republican Senators Shelley Moore Capito and Mike Lee, would speed approvals for power plants, transmission lines, mines and other infrastructure projects.
2. Changes and opposition
Changes to the legislation include requirements for consultation with tribes, an expanded state role in transmission planning and a Department of Energy program to help communities address data-center impacts. The National Congress of American Indians urged Congress to halt consideration, saying the bill would weaken tribal sovereignty and protections for sacred sites. Environmental groups said the changes were improvements but that the bill still posed risks to public lands and environmental protections.
3. Next steps
Senator Catherine Cortez Masto supported opening debate but said she would oppose final passage unless provisions affecting the National Historic Preservation Act are removed. If the bill passes the Senate, it would still need House approval; House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries said it was under review.
