Us Congress Senate Bill SB989

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/27/23
• Refer: 3/27/23

Caption

North American Energy Act

Impact

The introduction of SB989 could significantly change the regulatory landscape for energy infrastructure at international borders. By mandating that agencies like the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the Secretary of Energy are responsible for issuing certificates of crossing within 90 days, the bill aims to reduce delays in project approvals. This, in turn, could enhance energy security, improve cross-border trade relationships, and potentially lead to economic growth in the energy sector. However, there remains an emphasis on ensuring that such developments are in the public interest, striking a balance between facilitation and oversight.

Summary

SB989, known as the North American Energy Act, aims to set a more uniform and streamlined process for the construction, operation, and maintenance of international border-crossing facilities that are utilized for the import and export of oil and natural gas, as well as the transmission of electricity. This legislation seeks to modernize the regulatory framework surrounding these critical energy infrastructures, emphasizing a coordinated approach involving various federal agencies to promote timely decision-making in facility authorization. The bill stipulates that relevant certifications must be issued within specified timeframes, providing a clearer roadmap for developers and investors in the energy sector.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits of SB989 in streamlining the approval process, the bill has faced criticism from various stakeholders concerned about its implications for environmental protection and local community oversight. Critics argue that accelerating the approval process may lead to insufficient environmental reviews, potentially overlooking the impacts on local ecosystems. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the weakening of state regulations in favor of expedited federal oversight, which could undermine local governmental authority and public involvement in energy infrastructure projects. As the bill progresses, these points of contention are likely to be pivotal in the ensuing debates.