Bill > HR689

This bill aims to streamline and expedite the federal government's permitting processes by requiring each agency to evaluate its current permitting system and consider implementing a "permitting by rule" approach. Under this approach, agencies would establish clear written standards for permits, allow applicants to simply certify their compliance with those standards, and create a more efficient approval process with strict deadlines. The bill requires agencies to submit comprehensive reports to Congress within 240 days, detailing their current permit types, review processes, typical processing times, and an assessment of whether each permit type could be converted to a "permitting by rule" system. If an agency determines a permit could be issued by rule, it must establish a new application process within 12 months that allows automatic permit approval after 180 days if all certifications are submitted and no agency action is taken. The bill also provides robust protections for applicants, including the right to appeal agency decisions, with the agency bearing the burden of proof in such appeals and potentially being required to pay attorney fees if its actions are found unjustified. Additionally, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) will conduct oversight by reviewing agency reports and tracking implementation progress, with the ultimate goal of making federal permitting more efficient, transparent, and less bureaucratic.

Government Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/689/all-info