H.R.3062 - Promoting Cross-border Energy Infrastructure Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3062, the Promoting Cross-border Energy Infrastructure Act, aims to streamline the authorization process for constructing, connecting, operating, and maintaining international border-crossing facilities for oil, natural gas, and electricity transmission. It seeks to establish a more uniform, transparent, and modern process, potentially reducing bureaucratic delays.
The bill designates the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the Secretary of Energy as the relevant authorities for pipelines and electric transmission facilities, respectively. It also sets deadlines for application reviews and aims to expedite the approval of natural gas imports/exports to Canada and Mexico.
Furthermore, the bill repeals the requirement for Presidential permits for such projects, instead relying on certificates of crossing issued by the designated agencies. It also includes provisions to prevent the revocation of existing Presidential permits.
Expected Effects
This bill, if enacted, would likely lead to faster approval times for cross-border energy infrastructure projects. This could spur investment in energy infrastructure and potentially lower energy costs.
It could also lead to increased energy trade with Canada and Mexico. The shift in authority from Presidential permits to agency certifications could reduce political influence in project approvals.
Potential Benefits
- Faster approval processes for energy infrastructure projects.
- Increased investment in cross-border energy infrastructure.
- Potential for lower energy costs due to increased supply and trade.
- Enhanced energy security through diversification of energy sources.
- Streamlined regulatory framework for international energy projects.
Potential Disadvantages
- Reduced environmental oversight due to expedited approval processes.
- Potential for increased environmental risks associated with new infrastructure.
- Possible negative impacts on local communities near border-crossing facilities.
- Concerns about the fairness and transparency of the certification process.
- Risk of prioritizing energy security over environmental protection and community concerns.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations. By streamlining the approval process for cross-border energy infrastructure, the bill facilitates international trade and energy exchange.
However, the shift in authority from Presidential permits to agency certifications could raise questions about the President's executive power in foreign affairs. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights.
It is important to note that the Constitution does not explicitly address energy infrastructure, so the alignment is based on the broader principles of interstate and international commerce.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).