Accelerating Gas Pipeline Construction: Agency Coordination and Permitting Streamlining.
This Act aims to speed up the permitting process for new natural gas pipelines by designating the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) as the sole lead agency for environmental reviews. This means infrastructure projects, which can impact energy prices and supply, will be processed faster, but it limits the ability of other state and federal agencies to conduct independent, supplementary environmental assessments. For citizens, this could lead to quicker energy infrastructure development, but also potentially less local control over the environmental and water quality impacts of these projects.
Key points
FERC is established as the only lead agency for environmental reviews (NEPA) of gas pipeline projects, intended to shorten permitting times.
Other federal and state agencies must adhere to FERC's schedule and have limited ability to request supplemental environmental reviews.
Water quality certification requirements (Section 401 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act) are waived for applicants; states can only propose conditions that FERC may or may not include.
Mandatory consultation with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regarding pipeline infrastructure and cybersecurity is introduced.
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