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House Passes SPEED Act Overhauling NEPA to Speed Project Permits

Senate prospects are uncertain following a late Jan. 20 agency‑actions exemption that cost the bill clean‑energy backing.

Overview

  • The House approved the bill 221–196, with 11 Democrats voting yes and one Republican voting no.
  • The measure narrows the scope of environmental reviews under NEPA, directs agencies not to wait for new scientific research, and limits consideration of downstream emissions.
  • It shortens the window to file lawsuits to 150 days, restricts who can sue, sets clearer deadlines, and broadens categories of actions that do not require review.
  • A new provision exempts agency actions taken since Jan. 20 until enactment, preserving administration flexibility and prompting American Clean Power to withdraw support.
  • Dozens of fossil‑fuel and manufacturing groups and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce support the bill, while Democrats and environmental advocates say it weakens reviews and could hinder clean‑energy projects.