Agencies would replace presidents in approving cross-border energy lines
In committeeS. 1485Latest action
Sponsor: John Hoeven · Senator · ND
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: North American Energy Act
119th Congress
Topics: Environment & energy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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This bill replaces presidential approval of cross-border pipelines and power lines with a 90-day agency review process.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
This bill creates a standard federal process for approving pipelines and power lines that cross U.S. borders with Canada or Mexico. Companies would apply to FERC for oil and gas pipelines or the Department of Energy for electric lines, and receive a decision within 90 days after environmental review is complete. It removes the requirement that the president personally sign off on these projects through a presidential permit.
Who does it affect?
Energy companies that want to build or change cross-border pipelines or power lines would follow the new process. FERC and the Department of Energy would take over the review role previously held by the president. Facilities already operating when the law takes effect are not included.
Why does it matter?
Removing the presidential permit requirement shifts decision-making authority from the White House to federal regulatory agencies. Companies would have a defined timeline for receiving a decision once environmental review is finished.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedApr 10, 2025
- Senate committeeYou are here · Apr 10, 2025
- 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.