US senators reach deal on energy project permitting bill, vote after midterm elections
XLE•Senators from both parties said they reached a deal to reform permitting for large energy and infrastructure projects, with a vote targeted for after the November 3 midterm elections.
1. Deal reached
US senators from both parties said they had reached an agreement on the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act, though a vote will not occur before the midterm elections. Republican Senator Shelley Moore Capito said the goal is to make it the Senate’s first vote after the chamber returns.
2. Bill provisions
The bill would set deadlines for environmental reviews, limit court challenges and make permits harder to overturn once issued. It would require agencies to complete major reviews within one to two years, streamline coordination across departments, and establish new approval processes for transmission lines and upgrades. It also includes provisions to accelerate renewable energy projects and covers onshore and offshore wind.
3. Support and concerns
Industry groups representing renewable developers and oil and gas producers praised the proposal, while environmental groups criticized it for weakening safeguards. Democrat Sheldon Whitehouse said more amendment work is needed and that questions about the administration’s treatment of wind and solar projects remain unresolved. The White House supports the bill, an official said.
