Small Projects Expedited Execution and Delivery Act; SPEED Act
Summary
The "Small Projects Expedited Execution and Delivery Act" (SPEED Act) aims to amend MAP-21 to modify provisions related to categorical exclusions for projects receiving limited federal assistance. Specifically, it seeks to increase the threshold for these exclusions. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on June 20, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Expected Effects
The SPEED Act, if enacted, would raise the financial thresholds for projects eligible for categorical exclusions under MAP-21. This means that more projects with costs between the old and new thresholds could potentially bypass more extensive environmental reviews. This could lead to faster project completion but may also reduce environmental oversight.
Potential Benefits
- Faster Project Completion: Increasing the categorical exclusion thresholds could expedite the completion of smaller infrastructure projects.
- Reduced Bureaucracy: Streamlining the approval process could reduce administrative burdens for project sponsors.
- Cost Savings: Less extensive reviews could lead to cost savings in project development.
- Stimulation of Local Economies: Quicker project turnaround could provide a more immediate boost to local economies.
- Increased Project Volume: More projects may be undertaken due to the reduced regulatory burden.
Potential Disadvantages
- Reduced Environmental Oversight: Higher thresholds for categorical exclusions could result in less thorough environmental reviews for some projects.
- Potential for Environmental Damage: Expedited projects without adequate review could lead to unforeseen environmental consequences.
- Limited Public Input: Streamlined processes may reduce opportunities for public input and engagement.
- Risk of Inefficient Spending: Less scrutiny could increase the risk of inefficient or wasteful spending on projects.
- Uneven Distribution of Benefits: The benefits of expedited projects may not be evenly distributed across all communities.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the constitutional principle of promoting the general welfare (Preamble). Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8) provides a basis for legislation concerning transportation and infrastructure projects. However, the potential impact on environmental protection could raise questions related to the government's responsibility to protect natural resources for future generations.
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).