FEDERAL ENGAGEMENT SNAPSHOT

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER

The Senate released bipartisan permitting reform legislation on September 30 aimed at improving permitting processes and providing greater certainty for energy and infrastructure development. The proposal addresses environmental reviews, litigation timelines, and transmission, among other issues. CEA is evaluating the legislation and its potential impact on consumers and energy development.

See full bill text

With diesel prices elevated, Washington is considering potential restrictions on U.S. diesel exports, along with expanded flexibility for dyed diesel use. CEA is closely tracking these discussions because diesel costs affect farmers, transportation providers, manufacturers, businesses, and ultimately consumers.

CEA has raised concerns that export restrictions could create unintended consequences. Gulf Coast refiners produce more diesel than the region consumes, and infrastructure constraints limit how easily additional supply can reach other U.S. markets. Significant restrictions could also reduce refinery output, affecting supplies of diesel, gasoline, and jet fuel.

Read CEA’s analysis.

Congress spent September addressing several priorities before lawmakers returned home ahead of the November election. Congress passed a Continuing Resolution extending government funding through December 11, while other issues remain unresolved. Work continues on a reconciliation package, while the Senate did not advance the Ratepayer Protection Act before recess. Lawmakers are also considering reauthorization of the Great American Outdoors Act.

CEA joined a U.S. Chamber of Commerce comment letter supporting the EPA’s proposed updates to its National Environmental Policy Act implementation procedures and a more efficient permitting process for energy development.

CEA joined AFPM and other industry leaders in urging Congress to use its Congressional Review Act authority to disapprove six EPA California waivers that could limit consumer choice.

CEA submitted comments supporting the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s proposed updates to its NEPA implementation procedures and efforts to streamline permitting for energy projects.

CEA President David Holt joined WBAP Morning News to discuss “Will Our Grid Stand Up to the Heat?”

CEA released “Think You Don’t Use Data Centers? Think Again.”

CEA highlighted the potential unintended consequences of a potential diesel export restrictions for families, farmers, and small businesses.