H.R.689 - Full Responsibility and Expedited Enforcement Act; FREE Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.689, the FREE Act, aims to streamline the federal permitting process by requiring agencies to evaluate their existing permitting systems and consider replacing them with a 'permit by rule' system. This system would involve specific written standards, applicant self-certification, and a streamlined approval process with deadlines for agency action. The goal is to reduce delays and costs associated with federal permitting.
Expected Effects
The bill seeks to make permitting more efficient by shifting the focus from gatekeeping to auditing and enforcement of compliance. Agencies would be required to report to Congress on their permitting systems and the feasibility of implementing 'permit by rule'. Ultimately, this could lead to faster permit approvals and reduced burdens for applicants.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced permitting delays for businesses and individuals.
- Lower costs associated with the permitting process.
- Increased government efficiency through streamlined processes.
- Greater transparency and predictability in permitting decisions.
- Potential for innovation and economic growth due to faster project approvals.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for reduced environmental protection if self-certification is not adequately audited.
- Risk of inconsistent application of standards across different agencies.
- Possible increase in litigation due to appeals of disapproved permits.
- Potential for agencies to struggle with the transition to a new permitting system.
- Possibility of increased burden on agencies to audit and enforce compliance.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's focus on streamlining administrative processes and reducing bureaucratic delays aligns with the principle of efficient governance. Congress's power to legislate and oversee the executive branch, as outlined in Article I, is exercised through the requirement for agency reports and the establishment of permitting rules. The emphasis on due process in the disapproval and appeal process for permits aligns with the Fifth Amendment.
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).