WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Subcommittee on Fisheries, Water, and Wildlife, joined Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) in introducing legislation to allow critical infrastructure project proponents to continue using the nationwide permit (NWP) program.
“Energy producers in North Dakota and across the country need regulatory certainty to continue America’s energy revolution,” said Senator Cramer.“Our legislation ensures Army Corps regulations are sufficient for moving projects forward.”
“In the middle of a pandemic, Texas energy producers face enough uncertainty right now,” said Senator Cornyn. “We should be encouraging investment in critical infrastructure so that once we return to normal, domestic energy producers will be able to meet the increased demand.”
Background:
The bill would clarify the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ (USACE) current NWP process and procedures satisfy the Endangered Species Act requirements. It also amends the Clean Water Act to authorize use of the NWP through December 2026. The bill would apply to all industries and would not add any new NWP requirements or alter existing ones.
The introduction of this legislation follows the USACE releasing a proposed rule today to renew and revise nationwide permits.