The EPA proposed a rule Friday designed to limit blue states’ ability to reject oil and gas pipeline projects.
The proposed rule implements an April executive order from President Trump to rein in state use of Section 401 of the Clean Water Act. That provision of the law allows states to deny permits if leaks from an energy infrastructure project could harm nearby streams or lakes.
EPA’s rule would put a one-year deadline for states to deny permits in order to promote the “timely review of infrastructure projects.”
“Our proposal is intended to help ensure that states adhere to the statutory language and intent of Clean Water Act,” EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler said in a statement. “When implemented, this proposal will streamline process for constructing new energy infrastructure projects that are good for American families, American workers, and the American economy.”
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