To amend the Natural Gas Act to establish a deadline for the review of applications for natural gas export and import orders, and for other purposes.
Impact
The implications of this bill on state law include a more regulated and timely approach to natural gas exports and imports, ensuring that applications are handled expeditiously. This could lead to an increase in domestic natural gas production and revenue, as shorter review periods might encourage more businesses to apply for export licenses. Additionally, the requirement for annual reporting to Congress by the Secretary of Energy regarding application decisions may enhance oversight and transparency in the decision-making process.
Summary
House Bill 8022 is aimed at amending the Natural Gas Act to establish a specific deadline for the review of applications regarding natural gas export and import orders. The bill mandates that the Secretary of Energy must grant or deny applications within 180 days of submission. If not, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has the authority to grant the application after an opportunity for a hearing if it finds the proposal consistent with the public interest. This aims to streamline the process for natural gas transactions and provide more clarity in regulatory timelines.
Contention
Points of contention surrounding HB 8022 may arise regarding the balance of authority between the federal government and states. Critics argue that such a swift review process could overlook essential environmental and safety considerations, potentially undermining public interest protections associated with energy exports. Furthermore, the interaction between the Energy Secretary and FERC in determining applications raises questions about the appropriate level of regulatory scrutiny and the risk of expedited approvals compromising public safety and environmental standards.
Promoting Cross-border Energy Infrastructure Act This bill establishes a new process for approving the construction and operation of energy infrastructure across an international border of the United States and replaces the existing process established under specified executive orders. Specifically, this bill requires a person to obtain a certificate of crossing before constructing, connecting, operating, or maintaining a border-crossing facility for the import or export of oil, natural gas, or electricity across a U.S. border between Canada or Mexico. A certificate must be obtained from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for a facility consisting of oil or natural gas pipelines or the Department of Energy (DOE) for an electric transmission facility. As a condition of issuing a certificate, DOE must require that an electric transmission facility be constructed, connected, operated, or maintained consistent with specified policies and standards. FERC and DOE must meet a deadline for issuing a certificate as set forth by this bill. The bill also requires FERC to meet a deadline for approving applications to import or export natural gas to or from Canada or Mexico.
Reforms the organizational structure for the Department of Transportation and Development including its duties, powers, and responsibilities of officers and employees (EN INCREASE SD EX See Note)