Bill > S1901

This bill addresses how legal challenges impact liquefied natural gas (LNG) export applications and facility approvals. The legislation defines specific terms like "covered application" and "covered facility" related to natural gas export authorizations and LNG facilities. The bill limits the impact of environmental litigation by preventing courts from vacating permits or licenses for LNG facilities, instead requiring federal agencies to resolve any procedural violations through a remand process. It establishes that federal courts of appeals have original and exclusive jurisdiction over LNG facility application reviews, with expedited review requirements. The bill also creates a 90-day statute of limitations for filing legal challenges to LNG facility permits, beginning from the date of final publication in the Federal Register. Importantly, the legislation aims to streamline the approval process for LNG export facilities by reducing legal uncertainties and preventing prolonged litigation from halting project developments. The bill applies to facilities requiring approval from the Secretary of Energy, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, or the Maritime Administration, and seeks to provide more predictability and efficiency in the regulatory process for LNG infrastructure projects.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1901/all-info