US lawmakers push clean energy permitting bill past opposition

Lawmakers are pushing a fast-tracked energy permitting bill despite heavy pushback from environmental advocates.

Democratic lawmakers are rushing to advance a major energy permitting bill in the United States Congress. Environmental groups are strongly opposing the legislation, arguing that its limits on litigation will harm conservation efforts. Proponents contend the measure is the closest legislative effort yet to achieving bipartisan support.

• The oppositionEnvironmental organisations argue the legislation weakens legal safeguards for natural habitats.
• The goalThe bill seeks to accelerate the transition to clean energy by streamlining federal permitting rules.