Four US senators have reached a bipartisan agreement on legislation to reform federal environmental review and permitting processes for energy and infrastructure projects. The legislation aims to shorten the time required to approve energy and infrastructure projects while retaining environmental review requirements.
The Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act of 2026 was introduced by Senators Mike Lee, Shelley Moore Capito, Martin Heinrich and Sheldon Whitehouse on 30 September.
Among its provisions, the bill would provide greater certainty for projects that have already received permits, with permits generally retained unless there are extraordinary circumstances, violations of law or a court order. It also includes targeted changes to permitting processes for energy projects and measures intended to facilitate grid development.
The legislation includes provisions covering electricity transmission and generation. It would also require data centres to pay the transmission costs associated with their electricity demand. The senators said the measures are intended to support the development of additional generation and grid infrastructure as electricity demand increases.
The agreement also includes provisions concerning environmental safeguards and consultation with Tribal authorities during the permitting process. The bill reflects negotiations between members of both parties and input from other stakeholders.
The legislation has been introduced in the Senate but has not yet become law. Further consideration and amendments are expected before a vote.
