WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) applauded the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) for proposing regulatory updates to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Barrasso is chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW). EPW has jurisdiction over NEPA. 

“The Trump administration is taking common sense steps to make the National Environmental Policy Act work better for the American people,” said Barrasso. “Too often, important projects are slowed down because of lengthy permitting processes and litigation. President Trump has set a goal of completing environmental reviews for construction projects within two years. This proposal establishes that standard. These updates will reduce red tape so important infrastructure projects get done better, faster, cheaper, and smarter. Road and bridge safety projects that take months to build should not take years to permit. These regulatory updates promote safety and still protect America’s air, water, and communities. 

“I included similar provisions in America’s Transportation Infrastructure Act, which passed the Environment and Public Works Committee unanimously, last year. I will continue to work with the White House to advance policies that protect our environment and allow our economy to grow.”

Background Information:

On July 30, 2019, the EPW Committee unanimously advanced S. 2302, America’s Transportation Infrastructure Act of 2019 (ATIA). The bill authorizes $287 billion over five years, including $259 billion for formula programs to maintain and repair America’s roads and bridges. ATIA includes provisions to codify key elements of President Trump’s “One Federal Decision” policy to streamline project delivery and federal approvals. The legislation also includes provisions to improve road safety, protect the environment, and grow the economy.