U.S. Sens. John Curtis (R-UT) and Steve Daines (R-MT) on Feb. 5 proposed bipartisan legislation that would modernize and streamline federal environmental reviews and permitting by leveraging interactive, digital, and cloud-based technologies.
“Outdated, paper-based permitting systems slow down projects, frustrate communities, and make it harder for agencies to do their jobs,” Sen. Curtis said. “Our bipartisan legislation brings federal environmental reviews into the 21st Century by improving transparency, coordination, and public engagement without weakening critical environmental standards.”
The introduction of the ePermit Act, S. 3800, which Sen. Curtis sponsored alongside seven original cosponsors, including Sen. Daines and U.S. Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ), follows passage of the same-named companion bill, H.R. 4503, in the U.S. House of Representatives. U.S. Reps. Dusty Johnson (R-SD) and Scott Peters (D-CA) introduced the House version in July 2025.
If enacted, the measure would update the environmental review process; create a cloud-based permit authorization portal; and preserve existing environmental protection requirements, according to a bill summary provided by the senators.
The ePermit Act also would direct federal agencies to adopt standardized data systems and modern project management tools to tackle problems head on and help agencies work more efficiently while improving public access and accountability, the summary says.
“Far too often, critical infrastructure projects in Montana are held up because of burdensome permitting processes,” said Sen. Daines. “The ePermit Act will help cut through red tape and increase efficiency, and I’ll work with my colleagues to get it across the finish line.”
The bill is supported by Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) Action, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Global Energy Institute, Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions, the Environmental Policy Innovation Center, the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions, and the American Rivers Action Fund.
“In the 21st Century, it should be a no-brainer to use modern digital technology instead of pencils and paper to streamline and centralize our permitting process,” Sen. Booker added. “Making the government run more effectively and efficiently to deliver for communities is something both parties can get behind, and I’m proud that Democrats and Republicans are coming together to make our government work better for all Americans.”