How the permitting bill could collapse
Congress has its best chance in years to pass sweeping permitting legislation, but a series of political and policy obstacles could derail the bipartisan Senate plan. Why it matters: Cutting hurdles for energy projects is a top priority for fossil fuels and renewables sectors, and major business groups more broadly. Here are five risks to a lame-duck deal: 👱♂️ President Trump himself. The White…
The permitting bill presents a significant opportunity for lawmakers in the current lame-duck session, yet a multitude of political and policy challenges could impede its passage. Energy projects and the interests of both fossil fuel and renewable sectors strongly support cutting regulatory hurdles. However, several factors pose risks to a successful deal.
Firstly, President Trump's influence on the bill remains uncertain due to his unpredictable nature. The administration's stance on easing restrictions for wind and solar projects is still unclear, which could impact the bill's chances of gaining Democratic support.
Secondly, a potential "blue wave" in the upcoming elections might alter Democrats' leverage in the future, but there is currently little evidence to support this optimism. Even if Democrats secure the Senate, they may not have the 60 votes needed to push the bill through. Additionally, President Trump's signature is still required for the bill to become law, which limits the prospects of a more favorable agreement in the future.
Environmental groups, including the Natural Resources Defense Council and the League of Conservation Voters, are still evaluating their position on the bill. A concerted effort against the legislation could make it more difficult for Democratic lawmakers to support it.
Utilities, such as American Electric Power and Berkshire Hathaway Energy, support the bill, but the Edison Electric Institute, the industry trade group, has not yet issued a position. The busy legislative calendar and potential changes to the bill, coupled with uncertainty about lawmakers' willingness to legislate after the election, could limit the time available to secure passage in both chambers.
House Energy and Commerce Chair Brett Guthrie has expressed a desire to modify electricity provisions, which could further complicate the bill's progress.
Ultimately, numerous factors could contribute to the bill's failure. With a seemingly endless list of potential obstacles, securing a successful outcome will undoubtedly be challenging.
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