House Passes Judiciary Committee Bill in Comprehensive Energy Package
Press Release
Today the House of Representatives passed the American Energy Solutions for Lowest Costs and More American Jobs Act, the House's comprehensive energy package comprised of 14 bills with bipartisan support that previously passed the House this Congress. A Judiciary Committee bill was included in the package, H.R. 2641, the RAPID Act, sponsored by Judiciary Committee Member Tom Marino (R-Pa.).
The RAPID Act recognizes that delay and uncertainty in the review process for new construction permits undermine job creation, wages for hardworking Americans, and economic growth. This bill streamlines the approval process for federally-funded and federally-permitted infrastructure, energy and other construction projects and delivers faster approvals.
House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) and Congressman Marino praised today's vote by the House of Representatives:
Chairman Goodlatte: "Unnecessary red tape means fewer jobs for hardworking Americans, higher energy prices and a less competitive America. The RAPID Act, passed today in the House's comprehensive energy package, sets hard deadlines for federal construction permits, cracks down on prolonged lawsuits, and streamlines the permit approval process. By making these necessary reforms, the RAPID Act acts as a job creator for Americans across the country and opens opportunities for Americans to find work while building our nation's infrastructure for the future."
Congressman Marino: "This is a common-sense solution to the problems that have resulted from the outdated, burdensome, and convoluted federal permitting process. Streamlining this process will accelerate project approval; creating jobs, boosting our economy, and increasing our energy independence. There is no doubt that the current process is broken. It is resulting in fewer jobs for Americans who want to get back to work and higher energy costs for families and small businesses. I am pleased that the House has yet again passed this important legislation that will force the bureaucracy to become more accountable and responsive to the Americans it is trusted to serve."
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