Tribal Leaders Push Back as Senate Advances Permitting Overhaul

The U.S. Senate voted Monday to advance a sweeping permitting reform package, despite sustained opposition from tribal leaders ^[1].

Tribal leaders warn the bill could weaken the federal government's duty to consult with tribes before projects go forward, and could put culturally significant sites at risk ^[1]. Tribal Business News has also laid out what tribes say permitting reform should deliver for them ^[2].

Supporters argue that cutting red tape will lower power bills. The opposition includes tribal leaders, environmental groups and some New Mexico Democrats ^[3].

The bill would also require major data centers to pay for the grid upgrades they cause, so other electricity customers don't absorb those costs ^[4].

American Story's view: faster permits and respect for treaty obligations do not have to be enemies. The Senate can build America's energy future and keep its word to the first Americans at the same time. We will follow the floor debate.