According to a report by MiningNews.net, the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee has passed a new bipartisan agreement that will ease permitting for energy projects on federal lands.
　　Bureaucratic red tape has become a serious obstacle to licensing U.S. energy projects. A recent report by S&P found that, on average, the permitting process for U.S. energy project development takes nearly 29 years—second to last in the world.
　　S&P believes that U.S. mine development “takes too long, ultimately leading to excessive uncertainty and making it difficult to attract investment.”
　　This reform, proposed by Senators Joe Manchin and John Barrasso after two years of discussion, aims to streamline the permitting process and reduce costs for energy projects.
　　“Every hearing in this Congress has highlighted the need for reform,” Manchin said. “No matter which side you’re on, everyone recognizes that the permitting system has reached a point where it simply can’t go on as it is.”
　　The National Mining Association (NMA) expressed its support for this bill.
　　NMA Chairman Rich Nolan said, “It’s encouraging to see in today’s vote that bipartisan cooperation remains strong—senators with such vastly different priorities can come together and recognize that if we are to remain competitive on the global stage, ensure responsible sourcing of raw materials for supply chains, and provide a stable supply of materials and energy for modern life, reform is essential.”
　　“We must now remove the internal obstacles that are hindering the development of America’s mining potential and support this important bill.”
　　On the other hand, environmental groups oppose this bill, expressing concern that the U.S. will be extracting fossil fuels on federal lands. Before the vote, more than 360 climate and environmental organizations sent a letter to the Senate, calling for the bill to be rejected.
　　“Fossil fuel companies that disregard the energy transition should not be allowed to bid,” said Earthjustice. “What we really need is help in building clean energy infrastructure and protecting communities.”
　　Four legislators opposed this bill, including Bernie Sanders.