Biden revamps permitting in boost for clean energy

President Joe Biden has launched his history-making rule to revamp the country’s foundational environmental law as his administration seeks to build out clean energy and combat climate change.

On Tuesday, the White House finalized its “Phase 2” revisions for the National Environmental Policy Act’s regulations, which top officials believe will speed up permitting for key infrastructure projects while maintaining environmental protections. The rule is considered a cornerstone of Biden’s green agenda as he mounts his 2024 reelection bid and is likely to face resistance from Republican lawmakers and industry trade associations.

Brenda Mallory, chair of the White House Council on Environmental Quality, said the Bipartisan Permitting Reform Implementation Rule will facilitate agencies moving faster on permits for infrastructure that can help the environment, thereby defying the conventional wisdom that government bureaucracy is slow.

“We are making reforms in this rule that will help speed infrastructure and permitting, but without losing sight of the environmental and health benefits we need to protect,” Mallory told reporters Monday.