Statement: Dream.Org Endorses Energy Permitting Reform Act, Calls for Robust Community Engagement
Washington, D.C – Today, the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources will vote on the recently-proposed Energy Permitting Reform Act of 2024. This bill paves the way for a stronger electric grid, streamlines the expansion of clean energy, and shortens the current lengthy approval processes for energy projects. While the proposed legislation also supports coal, drilling, and natural gas, the wins for transmission and clean energy are essential for climate progress.
In advance of the committee vote, Dream.Org’s Green For All Policy Director Kyle Kammien issued the following statement:
“Bipartisan action on permitting reform and transmission is critical to a more resilient and sustainable energy future. Dream.Org applauds the bill’s ambitious renewable energy goals for onshore and offshore wind, requirements for interregional transmission planning, and streamlined approvals for transmission and renewable energy projects. Since 2022, Dream.Org has worked to advance common ground solutions to improve permitting and transmission while paving the way for more affordable, reliable clean energy, and this bill represents a strong bipartisan effort to meet those goals.”
“While we share concerns with the environmental community about the bill’s support for fossil fuels, we also acknowledge that bipartisanship often requires compromise. However, communities cannot take the backseat to our energy future. We urge Congress to make sure that communities are brought into the early stages of the permitting process. In addition, the statute of limitations for oil and gas leasing should also be extended to one year instead of the proposed 150 days to allow sufficient time for community feedback. We look forward to working with Senator Manchin and Senator Barrasso to advocate for a strong bill that’s a win for our climate and our communities.”
ABOUT DREAM.ORG
At Dream.Org, we bring people together across racial, social, and partisan lines. Through our Justice, Tech, and Green For All programs, we are working towards an America with fewer people behind bars, less pollution, and greater opportunities for underserved communities.
