Officials Discuss Energy Permitting Speed and Litigation Risk at AUSA Meeting

During the Association of the U.S. Army’s annual meeting, Kate MacGregor discussed energy projects with Army officials. MacGregor noted that the current permitting system frequently results in litigation, requiring aggressive action to ensure project delivery. Officials from the Army, the EPA, and the Interior Department outlined plans to speed up permits for pipelines and power lines, even as a Senate permitting deal awaits a floor vote.

The discussion highlights efforts by the Trump administration to accelerate infrastructure development by streamlining permitting processes. MacGregor emphasized that decisions regarding energy projects must have the strength to last beyond a single administration, addressing concerns over judicial review of permits.

A bipartisan Senate deal was reached last month to limit lawsuits against energy projects, but a floor vote is not expected until the lame-duck session after the midterm elections.