Rep. Peters Introduces Bipartisan CERTAIN Act to Fast-Track Infrastructure Permits
This bill is currently in the early stages of the legislative process and is being reviewed by three different House committees. It is actively moving forward as it waits for these committees to finish their work. There are no other scheduled actions at this time.
The bill has support from both parties and addresses a major national priority, but it may face pushback from groups concerned about environmental protections.
The bill explicitly exempts tribal governments from some of the tight response deadlines that apply to other participating agencies, recognizing unique tribal consultation needs. However, the overall push to accelerate environmental reviews could reduce the time available for meaningful tribal input on projects affecting ancestral lands and sacred sites.
“Notwithstanding section 8(4), the deadline in subparagraph (A) shall not apply to the governing body of any Indian or Alaska Native Tribe, band, nation, pueblo, village, community, component band, or component reservation”
Referred to the Committee on Natural Resources, and in addition to the Committees on Transportation and Infrastructure, and Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Sent to a congressional committee for expert review. The committee decides whether this bill moves forward.
Introduced in House
The bill was officially filed and given a number. It now enters the legislative queue.
No votes have been recorded for this legislation yet.
Reps. Scott Peters and Gabe Evans introduced the CERTAIN Act to prevent administrations from scrapping lawfully issued permits. The bill aims to shield the permitting process from political meddling and ensures agencies conduct reviews within clear timelines.
While focusing on broadband, the article notes the introduction of the CERTAIN Act as part of a broader push for permitting reform. The Act would streamline the judicial review process, requiring courts to decide challenges within 90 days when agencies miss deadlines.
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
CERTAIN Act
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