Improving Interagency Coordination for Pipeline Reviews Act
Summary
The "Improving Interagency Coordination for Pipeline Reviews Act" aims to streamline the authorization process for natural gas pipelines by enhancing coordination among federal agencies. It designates the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) as the lead agency for NEPA reviews related to pipeline projects. The bill sets deadlines for federal authorizations and promotes concurrent reviews by various agencies.
It also addresses water quality impacts and pipeline security, requiring consultation with the Transportation Security Administration. The Act seeks to improve accountability and transparency by making project information publicly available on FERC's website.
Overall, the bill intends to expedite pipeline project approvals while ensuring environmental and security considerations are addressed through better interagency collaboration.
Expected Effects
This act will likely result in faster approval times for natural gas pipeline projects due to improved interagency coordination and clearer timelines. This could lead to increased energy infrastructure development and potentially lower energy costs.
However, it may also reduce the scope for independent environmental reviews by participating agencies. This could lead to concerns about potential environmental impacts if deference to FERC's review is prioritized over thorough independent assessments.
The act could also affect states' ability to enforce water quality standards, depending on how the Commission considers state-proposed conditions.
Potential Benefits
- Faster approval and construction of natural gas pipelines.
- Reduced regulatory burden and improved efficiency for energy projects.
- Enhanced energy security through increased infrastructure.
- Greater transparency through public access to project information.
- Potential for economic growth and job creation in the energy sector.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for reduced environmental oversight due to deference to FERC.
- Possible weakening of state authority over water quality regulations.
- Risk of overlooking local concerns if interagency coordination prioritizes speed.
- May disproportionately benefit energy companies over local communities.
- Potential for increased pipeline construction without adequate community consultation.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) by regulating interstate commerce related to natural gas pipelines. It also touches upon the Necessary and Proper Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 18) by enacting laws to carry out the powers vested in the government to regulate commerce. The emphasis on interagency coordination could be seen as promoting the general welfare, as stated in the Preamble.
However, potential impacts on environmental regulations may raise questions related to the Tenth Amendment, which reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states. Specifically, state authority over water quality, as potentially affected by Section 2(e), could be a point of contention.
Overall, the bill appears to operate within the bounds of enumerated powers, but its implementation will need to respect the balance of power between the federal government and the states.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).