Representative Mike Pompeo (R-Kan.) introduced HR 1900, to provide for timely consideration of licenses, permits, and approvals with respect to the siting, construction, expansion, or operation of any natural gas pipeline projects. The bill would amend the Natural Gas Act by requiring FERC to approve or deny a certificate of public convenience or necessity no later than 12 months after providing public notice of the application. In addition, the bill would require that the agency responsible for issuing any license, permit or approval for any natural gas pipeline project for which a certificate is sought shall issue the approval or denial the permit no later than 90 days after FERC issues its final environmental document relating to the project. This proposed legislation follows President Obama’s announcement in March 2012 of Executive Order 13604 to expedite permitting and review of domestic pipeline infrastructure projects, as well as a January 2013 INGAA report critical of delays by non-FERC agencies in permitting projects. (See previous Pipelinelaw postings dated March 22, 2012 and January 17, 2013). HR 1900 has been referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. Click here for a copy of the bill.