"The proposed rule change would limit the ability of states and tribes to block pipeline plans over concerns for water safety."
"The Trump administration is proposing changes to federal regulations that could fast-track the approval of natural gas pipelines and other energy infrastructure. Environmental advocates say the move will weaken the ability of states and tribes to protect their waters.
The proposed changes to Clean Water Act permitting rules, announced Friday by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, would limit the amount of time states and tribes can take to review new project proposals to a 'reasonable period' of no more than one year, with the definition of 'reasonable period' left to federal agencies to determine and the clock starting from the inital request for a permit, with no pauses or restarts.
It also would limit states to considering only water quality and allow the federal government to override states' decisions to deny permits for projects in some situations."
Phil McKenna reports for InsideClimate News August 9, 2019.
SEE ALSO:
"Clean Water Act: EPA Limits State Permit Role In Bid To Spur Energy Projects" (Greenwire)
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