Prime Highlights:
- The U.S. House of Representatives is advancing the SPEED Act to make it easier and faster to build data centers and tech infrastructure.
- Major companies like OpenAI, Meta, and Microsoft support the bill, aiming to boost U.S. technology growth and investment.
Key Facts:
- The SPEED Act would shorten federal review timelines under NEPA and reduce the time allowed to challenge permits, helping prevent long project delays.
- Industry groups say the bill could attract billions in investment and improve digital infrastructure development across the country.
Background:
The U.S. House is pushing a bill to ease permits for tech and semiconductor projects. The SPEED Act, backed by OpenAI, Meta, and Microsoft, aims to speed up building data centers and tech projects.
Supporters argue the bill is crucial for keeping the United States competitive in AI and semiconductor production, particularly as China continues to expand its own infrastructure. “For companies like OpenAI, a more efficient and predictable permitting process is essential,” said Chan Park, head of U.S. and Canada policy at OpenAI.
The bill recently cleared a procedural vote 215-209 and may face a full House vote later this week. Among its main changes, the SPEED Act would shorten federal review timelines under the 1969 National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and reduce the time allowed to challenge permits from six years to 150 days, helping to prevent long project delays caused by lawsuits.
The bill has bipartisan support, with co-sponsors including Rep. The bill is supported by Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) and Rep. Jared Golden (D-Maine). Industry groups, like the Data Center Coalition, say it could bring billions in investment and improve digital infrastructure.
The bill still faces challenges. Some Republicans oppose parts that limit the president’s control over energy projects, and some Democrats and environmental groups worry it could weaken environmental protections.
If passed, the SPEED Act would be the first step in broader permitting reforms, making it easier to build energy and other infrastructure projects. Senators are also working on a similar bill, with bipartisan talks underway.