Charleston Leader

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito, the Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, conducted a hearing on improving federal environmental review and permitting processes in Washington, D.C. The aim is to modernize these processes while upholding critical environmental standards.

Chairman Capito emphasized the importance of addressing these challenges through bipartisan efforts. She noted that the hearing record will remain open until March 21 to allow stakeholders to contribute their experiences and insights.

In her opening statement, Capito highlighted the necessity of updating federal environmental review and permitting processes. "For too long, critical projects such as energy and infrastructure projects, along with industrial projects as well, have been trapped in a cycle of redundant reviews, shifting goalposts, and regulatory uncertainty," she stated.

Capito expressed concerns about how delays affect not only project costs but also American families who face higher expenses for energy, housing, and food. Businesses also struggle with uncertainty that hinders long-term investments.

The framework for environmental review relies on landmark laws such as NEPA, which requires federal agencies to consider environmental impacts on major federally funded projects. Other laws like the Clean Water Act and Clean Air Act ensure environmentally responsible project development through permits and operational requirements.

Capito pointed out that years of regulatory changes have led to a complex system with duplicative requirements. "While this confusing and complex body of administrative and common law has grown over the past half century," she said, "Congress has not stepped in to provide the holistic clarifications or modernization."

She cited specific examples from West Virginia where projects faced significant delays due to required permits under various environmental statutes. Despite these challenges, Capito believes there is an opportunity for Congress to deliver meaningful reforms.

"I am committed to working with Ranking Member Whitehouse," she affirmed, "our colleagues on the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and our House committee counterparts to produce a bill with meaningful reforms."

Capito concluded by stating her guiding principles for reform: legislation must help all types of projects while providing clarity and transparency without compromising public health or environmental protections. "Hardworking Americans... want a government that works for them," she remarked.

The discussion at the hearing aims to find consensus on issues needing legislative focus to develop effective solutions for Americans.