Bill sets one- and two-year deadlines for federal environmental reviews of energy projects
In committeeS. 5653Latest action
Sponsor: Shelley Moore Capito · Senator · WV
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act of 2026
119th Congress
Topics: Environment & energy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
The plain-language version comes first. The official text is always the reference.
The bill would set firm deadlines for federal environmental reviews: generally one year for assessments and two years for full impact statements.
40-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
S 5653 is a large package meant to speed up federal approvals for power lines, energy projects, pipelines, and dams. It changes the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act. It would narrow what counts as a "major federal action" that triggers review, and let agencies reuse reviews done under state or tribal law.
Who does it affect?
The bill would mainly affect federal agencies, companies and governments that build energy and infrastructure projects, and communities, tribes, and environmental groups that take part in project reviews.
Why does it matter?
Supporters of permitting reform generally say faster approvals can lower costs and speed construction. Critics generally worry that shorter timelines and narrower reviews could limit public input and environmental scrutiny.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Based on the “Introduced in Senate” text of Sep 30, 2026.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedSep 30, 2026
- Senate committeeYou are here · Sep 30, 2026
- Senate vote
- House
- The president's desk
Right now: a Senate committee is reviewing it. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.