Utilities Back Bill to Streamline Pipeline Review Process

A proposed federal bill to reform judicial review of natural gas pipelines has gained support from several major utilities. The Unleash American Pipelines Act, H.R. 10500, aims to streamline the review process for approved pipeline projects by limiting legal challenges and establishing a clear standard for overturning Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) determinations.

According to U.S. Rep. Laurel Lee, who sponsored the bill, the legislation will bring greater certainty to the permitting process while preserving judicial review for those directly affected. The bill has been supported by Duke Energy, TECO Energy, and Florida Power and Light, with their CEOs citing the importance of reliable pipeline infrastructure in providing affordable and reliable electric service.

Natural gas accounts for nearly 73 percent of Florida's electricity generation, but the state produces less than one percent of the natural gas it uses. The bill aims to increase access to lower-cost gas supplies and strengthen energy reliability for Floridians.