H.R.3062 - Promoting Cross-border Energy Infrastructure Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 3062, the Promoting Cross-border Energy Infrastructure Act, aims to streamline the authorization process for constructing, connecting, operating, and maintaining international border-crossing facilities for oil, natural gas, and electricity transmission. It seeks to establish a more uniform, transparent, and modern process. The bill designates the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the Secretary of Energy as the relevant authorities for pipelines and electric transmission facilities, respectively.
The bill sets timelines for certificate issuance and repeals the requirement for Presidential permits for such projects. It also includes provisions for modifications to existing projects and prohibits the revocation of existing Presidential permits unless authorized by an Act of Congress. The Act mandates rulemaking deadlines for relevant agencies to implement the new requirements.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of this bill is to expedite the development of cross-border energy infrastructure projects. This could lead to increased energy trade between the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The standardization of the authorization process aims to reduce bureaucratic delays and promote investment in energy infrastructure.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Energy Security: Facilitates the import and export of energy resources, potentially enhancing energy security.
- Economic Growth: Streamlined processes can attract investment and create jobs in the energy sector.
- Modernized Infrastructure: Encourages the development of modern and efficient energy infrastructure.
- Reduced Bureaucracy: Eliminates redundant permitting requirements, reducing project timelines.
- Enhanced Trade Relations: Promotes smoother energy trade with Canada and Mexico.
Potential Disadvantages
- Environmental Concerns: Expedited approval processes could lead to inadequate environmental reviews.
- Potential for Increased Pollution: Increased fossil fuel infrastructure may contribute to pollution.
- Limited Public Input: Streamlined processes might reduce opportunities for public input and community consultation.
- Risk of Overdevelopment: The focus on speed could lead to overdevelopment of energy infrastructure.
- Impact on Local Communities: Construction and operation of facilities may negatively impact local communities.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations. By streamlining the process for cross-border energy infrastructure, the bill facilitates international trade and energy exchange. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
However, potential challenges could arise if the expedited approval processes compromise environmental protections or due process rights. These concerns could potentially implicate the Fifth Amendment (Due Process Clause) if not properly addressed during implementation.
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).