Environmental Organizations Challenge Federal Policies on Public Lands

The House of Representatives passed the Standardizing Permitting and Expediting Economic Development Act, or SPEED Act, on Thursday, October 19, 2023, with a vote of 221 to 196. The legislation aims to reform the National Environmental Policy Act, known as NEPA, which requires federal agencies to assess the environmental impacts of major projects.

Despite initial bipartisan support, last-minute amendments introduced by Republican lawmakers, including Andy Harris and Jeff Van Drew, have drawn criticism for potentially benefiting fossil fuel interests while undermining protections for clean energy projects.

This includes provisions that would shorten the deadlines for lawsuits against federal agency decisions from six years to 150 days and limit who can file lawsuits. Environmental groups oppose these changes, arguing they erode community input and threaten public health.

The American Clean Power Association and the American Council on Renewable Energy withdrew their support for the SPEED Act after these amendments were made. Advocacy group Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions noted the underlying reforms are critical despite concerns over the bill's amendments.

Critics, including Rep. Mike Levin from California, have expressed skepticism that the bill will adequately address the administration's existing obstacles to clean energy projects, particularly in light of recent directives from the Department of Interior requiring higher-level approvals for wind and solar projects.

The bill now moves to the Senate, where its future remains uncertain, and further changes are anticipated.