Reliable Power Act adds FERC review step for grid-related rules
Passed one chamberH.R. 3616Latest action
Sponsor: Troy Balderson · Representative · OH
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Reliable Power Act
119th Congress
Topics: Environment & energy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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The bill requires FERC review of new federal rules if grid regulators warn of a power generation shortage risk.
40-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
The bill requires the grid reliability organization (the ERO) to conduct annual studies checking whether the power grid has enough generation to meet demand, including in extreme weather. If a shortfall risk is found, the ERO must notify FERC of "generation inadequacy," triggering a required review process for new federal rules affecting power plants before agencies can finalize them.
Who does it affect?
The bill affects federal agencies that write energy and environmental rules (such as the Department of Energy and EPA), FERC, electric utilities, and grid operators. Electricity customers could be indirectly affected.
Why does it matter?
Supporters say the process adds a safeguard against regulations that could unintentionally cause power shortages, while critics may see it as a new step that could delay energy or environmental rules.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Based on the “Referred in Senate” text of Dec 18, 2025.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedMay 29, 2025
- House committee
- House vote
- SenateYou are here · Dec 18, 2025
- The president's desk
Right now: it passed the House, and the official record shows nothing new since. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
Recorded votes
Roll-call votes recorded since January 3, 2025.
House · · Roll call 347
As recorded
- Question
- On Passage
- Result:
- Passed
- 225
- Nay
- 203
- 0
- 5
Republicans 218 yes, 2 not voting · Democrats 7 yes, 203 no, 3 not voting
Official recordHow members voted
The official record lists how each member voted.Official record