Should SB1485 become law, it will significantly alter how energy projects are managed at international borders, streamlining the process and potentially accelerating the development of much-needed infrastructure. By limiting the time allowed for federal agencies to review applications, the bill intends to facilitate quicker decisions, thus enhancing the nation's ability to respond to energy demands. This legislative change is particularly relevant in the context of growing energy needs and international trade, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a robust energy supply chain.
Summary
SB1485, titled the 'North American Energy Act', seeks to modernize and simplify the regulatory framework governing the construction, operation, and maintenance of international border-crossing facilities involved in the import and export of oil, natural gas, and electricity. The bill aims to create a more uniform, transparent permitting process by requiring agencies to issue certificates of crossing within specific timeframes unless deemed contrary to the public interest. The legislation also removes the need for presidential permits for such facilities, which proponents argue will enhance energy security and efficiency across borders.
Contention
While supporters of SB1485 suggest it will foster economic growth and energy independence, critics raise concerns about the potential weakening of environmental safeguards. The removal of the presidential permit requirement could undermine checks intended to ensure that border-crossing projects align with national interests and environmental protections. Moreover, there are apprehensions regarding the expedited decision-making process, with fears that it might overlook local and environmental impacts tied to these energy projects. The debate around this bill reflects a broader discussion on the balance between regulatory efficiency and comprehensive environmental review.
Lower Energy Costs Act Water Quality Certification and Energy Project Improvement Act of 2023 TAPP American Resources Act Transparency, Accountability, Permitting, and Production of American Resources Act
Water Quality Certification and Energy Project Improvement Act of 2023 TAPP American Resources Act Transparency, Accountability, Permitting, and Production of American Resources Act Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act of 2023
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.