EDF Statement on Permitting Reform Proposal

“In the coming weeks Congress will consider a proposal to change the permitting process for energy projects. EDF believes the goal of a more effective permitting process is worthwhile, particularly to improve the review of needed clean energy projects. We also believe that reform need not come at the expense of meaningful community input. However, we have significant concerns about the details of the proposal as it has been reported. 

“Any changes in this area must maintain the strong environmental standards that exist in current law and allow for early and comprehensive community input as well as ensuring community protections to hold government agencies accountable. Congress must respect permitting decisions made by expert agencies and the courts. It must not weaken the evaluation of cumulative impacts – so important for protecting public health and addressing environmental injustice.  

“Congress should be cautious in providing a fast-track permitting process. Any projects chosen for fast-track assessment should have wide community support and should reduce pollution, create jobs, and make our energy system more resilient. No project should be automatically approved simply because the evaluative process does not meet an artificial deadline. 

“Given these priorities, the current proposal as reported falls short and EDF would oppose it.”