SMA Executive Vice President Brandon Farris today issued the following statement:

“We strongly applaud EPA’s proposed reforms to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). America’s permitting system has become a significant obstacle to economic growth, delaying critical infrastructure and manufacturing investments. Common-sense reforms to a process that too often serves as a tool to block projects rather than advance them are both timely and necessary.

“The American steel industry is investing more than $25 billion in communities across the country, creating jobs, strengthening supply chains, and supporting domestic manufacturing. Yet one of the most persistent barriers to these investments is the length and uncertainty of the permitting process. Streamlining reviews while maintaining rigorous environmental protections will help ensure these projects can move forward in a predictable and efficient manner.

“At the same time, the United States faces growing challenges related to electricity reliability and availability. These reforms can help accelerate the deployment of much-needed generation, transmission and industrial infrastructure that will be essential to meeting rising energy demand and supporting economic growth.

“We appreciate EPA’s commitment to protecting both our environment and our economy. By modernizing NEPA implementation, the agency is helping advance the Administration’s goal of revitalizing American manufacturing, strengthening U.S. competitiveness, and bringing high-quality jobs back to communities across the nation.”