Daines’ Amendment to Reduce Frivolous Lawsuits on Forestry Projects Passes Committee

• July 31, 2024

Package also contains Daines-led provisions to increase hydropower development

U.S. SENATE - U.S. Senator Steve Daines today applauded the passage of his forestry amendment to the "Energy Permitting Reform Act of 2024" by the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. The amendment ensures that forestry projects under the "Healthy Forests Restoration Act" are given expedited review, ensuring that forest projects will not be delayed by frivolous lawsuits. Also included were provisions to extend hydropower licenses and study market barriers to hydropower development.

"Forestry permitting reform is permitting reform. Far too often, projects to reduce hazardous fuels and restore forest health are tied up in frivolous litigation, which halts essential on-the-ground work," Daines said. "My amendment ensures that Montana forestry projects are entitled to accelerated review and is a necessary step towards protecting our western forests from catastrophic wildfires."

The "Energy Permitting Reform Act of 2024" was introduced by Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) and Joe Manchin (I-W.Va.). The bill strengthens American energy security by accelerating the permitting process for energy and mineral projects of all types, including forestry and hydropower.

Read the text of Senator Daines' forestry amendment HERE.

See more of Senator Daines' forestry work HERE.

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Contact: Matt Lloyd, Rachel Dumke