GAIN Statement: Manchin’s Permitting Bill Is Cut
Senator Manchin’s permitting reform bill was cut from discussion before any vote could take place. He was expecting pushback from fellow Democrats but also faced opposition from the other side of the aisle.
Below is a statement that can be attributed to me, Craig Stevens, spokesman for the GAIN Coalition:
“Despite broad bipartisan support for permitting reform, it is unfortunate that Senator Manchin’s bill was cut before a vote could even take place. The GAIN Coalition is disappointed that some members could not put their differences aside and support policies that are in the best interest of our energy industry and national security.
Senator Manchin’s Energy Independence and Security Act would have reformed the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to streamline energy projects such as the Mountain Valley Pipeline, and expedite the burdensome permitting approval process. That in turn would have given pipeline projects and oil and gas leasing the support it needs to move forward and help bolster our domestic energy infrastructure and production.
Regardless, the need for permitting reform does not go away. Allowing personal agendas to get in the way of needed change will continue to hinder the domestic energy industry during a supply chain crisis. We hope policymakers will come together in the future, and deliver meaningful reform.”