Summary of HR 3668: Improving Interagency Coordination for Pipeline Reviews Act

Purpose and Intent

The Improving Interagency Coordination for Pipeline Reviews Act (HR 3668) aims to enhance the efficiency and timeliness of the review process for natural gas pipeline projects in the United States. Introduced on June 2, 2025, by Representative Richard Hudson, the bill seeks to address delays in pipeline approvals that have hindered the expansion and modernization of the nation’s natural gas infrastructure.

Key Provisions

HR 3668 proposes several important changes to the current pipeline review process:

• Strengthening FERC's Role: The bill reinforces the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) as the lead agency responsible for coordinating environmental reviews and necessary federal authorizations under the Natural Gas Act.

• Concurrent Reviews: It mandates that federal and state agencies conduct their reviews concurrently with FERC’s review process, ensuring that all stakeholders are involved early in the application process.

• Use of Remote Aerial Surveys: Agencies are permitted to accept remote aerial survey data for environmental assessments, allowing for conditional approvals based on these surveys, pending onsite inspections.

• Public Accountability: FERC is required to publish a detailed schedule of the review process, enhancing transparency and accountability to the public.

Background and Need for Legislation

The bill responds to growing concerns about the delays in pipeline approvals, which have been attributed to insufficient coordination among various federal and state agencies. These delays have significant implications, including:

• Impact on Energy Reliability: Inadequate pipeline infrastructure has affected the reliability of electric grids, particularly in regions like New England, where natural gas-fired power plants struggle to secure fuel during peak demand periods.

• Cancellation of Projects: Numerous large pipeline projects have been canceled due to permitting challenges, limiting access to natural gas for millions of customers.

Affected Parties

The legislation primarily impacts:

• Federal and State Agencies: Agencies involved in the permitting process will need to adapt to the new requirements for concurrent reviews and the use of remote data.

• Natural Gas Industry: Companies seeking to construct or expand pipeline infrastructure will benefit from a streamlined review process.

• Consumers: Improved pipeline infrastructure is expected to enhance energy reliability and potentially lower energy costs for consumers.

Legislative Timeline

• June 2, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
• June 5, 2025: Subcommittee on Energy held a mark-up session and forwarded the bill to the full committee.
• June 25, 2025: The full committee reported the bill with a vote of 27-23.
• September 15, 2025: The bill was placed on the Union Calendar and reported by the Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Conclusion

HR 3668 represents a significant effort to modernize the natural gas pipeline review process by enhancing interagency coordination and accountability. If enacted, it aims to facilitate the timely construction of critical infrastructure, thereby improving energy reliability and efficiency across the nation.