Padilla, Bipartisan Senate Colleagues Push to Modernize Federal Permitting Process
ePermit Act would digitize the permitting process across federal agencies
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), John Curtis (R-Utah), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Dave McCormick (R-Pa.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), and Ted Budd (R-N.C.) introduced the ePermit Act, bipartisan legislation to modernize and streamline federal environmental reviews and permitting by utilizing interactive, digital, and cloud-based technologies. Companion legislation, led by Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.-AL) and Scott Peters (D-Calif.-50), previously passed in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The federal permitting process too often falls behind schedule due to outdated systems. Lengthy documentation requirements, limited transparency, and poor interagency coordination frequently create confusion, delay projects, and invite unnecessary litigation. The ePermit Act directs federal agencies to adopt standardized data systems and modern project management tools to tackle these problems head on, helping agencies work more efficiently while improving public access and accountability.
“There is no reason critical permitting reviews should be delayed by outdated, bureaucratic systems,” said Senator Padilla. “Modernizing our systems through digital tools and standardizing permitting data collection across agencies will save money and time while preserving strong environmental standards and public input. E-permitting is a commonsense solution with bipartisan support, and I will keep working across the aisle to get it done.”
“Outdated, paper-based permitting systems slow down projects, frustrate communities, and make it harder for agencies to do their jobs,” said Senator Curtis. “Our bipartisan legislation brings federal environmental reviews into the twenty-first century by improving transparency, coordination, and public engagement without weakening critical environmental standards.”
“In the 21st century, it should be a no-brainer to use modern digital technology instead of pencils and paper to streamline and centralize our permitting process,” said Senator Booker. “This is a commonsense solution that will cut unnecessary delays in bureaucracy and save money without compromising environmental standards, all while promoting accessibility and public engagement. Making the government run more effectively and efficiently to deliver for communities is something both parties can get behind, and I’m proud that Democrats and Republicans are coming together to make our government work better for all Americans.”
“BPC Action applauds the bipartisan introduction of the ePermit Act in the Senate. The bill would optimize technology to modernize federal environmental review and permitting processes for infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, mines, factories, energy facilities, and more. It would provide greater transparency, efficiency, and predictability on environmental reviews and associated timelines for sponsors and stakeholders,” said Michele Stockwell, President, Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) Action.
Specifically, the ePermit Act:
- Modernizes the environmental review process;
- Creates a cloud-based permit authorization portal; and
- Preserves existing environmental protection requirements.
During a Senate Environment and Public Works hearing last month, Senator Padilla pushed for bipartisan reforms to reduce permitting delays.
Full text of the bill is available here.
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