Faster Federal Permits: Ending Agency Delays and Bureaucracy (FREE Act)
This law aims to speed up and simplify the process of obtaining federal permits, which are often delayed by bureaucratic discretion. It introduces a 'Permitting by Rule' system, requiring agencies to act within 180 days, after which the permit is automatically granted if no decision is made. Citizens and businesses benefit from faster, more predictable approvals, while agencies retain the right to audit and enforce compliance afterward.
Key points
Establishes a 180-day deadline for agency permit review; failure to act results in automatic permit approval.
Agencies must define clear written standards, and applicants certify compliance, reducing official discretion.
Agencies must pay the applicant's attorney fees if they unreasonably delay action or unlawfully deny/revoke a permit.
Shifts the focus from pre-approval gatekeeping to post-approval auditing and enforcement to streamline processes.
Placed on Calendar
Citizen Poll