Bill would speed up geothermal permits on federal public lands
Placed on the calendarH.R. 5631Latest action
Sponsor: Jeff Hurd · Representative · CO
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Geothermal Energy Advancement Act
119th Congress
Topics: Environment & energy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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The bill speeds up federal geothermal permitting and lets permits proceed during lawsuits unless a court blocks them.
55-second read · 5 questions answered below
What does this do?
This bill requires the Department of the Interior to keep processing geothermal permits on a set timeline even during lawsuits, unless a court specifically halts the project. It also creates new tools like a Geothermal Ombudsman and a staff reassignment task force to speed up permitting, extends fast-track environmental review rules to geothermal projects, and changes how royalty rates are calculated based on when a facility starts operating.
Who does it affect?
This mainly affects geothermal energy companies developing projects on federal land and Bureau of Land Management staff who process permits. It may also affect nearby communities and groups that file lawsuits over these projects.
Why does it matter?
Permits could continue moving forward during litigation unless a court intervenes, which changes the leverage lawsuits have historically had over these projects. Communities near public lands may see faster geothermal development as a result.
What does it cost, and who pays?
The bill allows the government to charge companies fees to cover permit review and inspection costs, similar to oil and gas permitting, through 2033. It also allows possible pay bonuses for staff reassigned to help clear permit backlogs.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Based on the “Reported to Senate” text of Sep 17, 2026.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedSep 30, 2025
- House committee
- House vote
- SenateYou are here · Sep 17, 2026
- The president's desk
Right now: it was placed on the , and the official record shows no floor action on it since. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 663.