Summary

Directs the Department of the Interior to build modern, user‑friendly electronic permitting systems and a public online portal where people can see permit applications and related documents. It aims to make applying for permits easier and increase transparency while protecting sensitive information. The systems must be developed in consultation with governments and stakeholders, avoid duplicating existing tools, and include regular reports to Congress. They must also follow the permitting priorities in the National Environmental Policy Act for any Interior permits that require NEPA review, aligning with recent federal permitting reforms.

Key Points

• Requires Interior to build user‑friendly electronic permitting systems and a public portal
• Improves transparency by posting permit applications and related documents online
• Protects sensitive and legally protected information from public release
• Design and rollout must involve consultation with governments and stakeholders
• Interior must provide periodic updates to Congress on implementation
• Avoids duplicating existing federal or agency permitting tools
• Applies NEPA permitting priorities to Interior permits that undergo NEPA review
• Implements a conforming change to align with recent federal permitting reforms
• Does not set dates, dollar amounts, penalties, or new fees

Categories & Tags