In compliance with Executive Order (EO) 13783 “Promoting Energy Independence and Economic Growth”, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) released their report on October 25. The EO required federal agencies to review existing regulations that would potentially burden domestic energy resources (oil, natural gas, coal, nuclear resources). The USACE identified Nationwide Permits as a regulation meeting the review requirements of the EO.
Of the 52 nationwide permits that authorize activities under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act and Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899, the agency identified 12 of the 52 nationwide permits that related to domestic energy production. The USACE is recommending changes to nine of those 12 nationwide permits to reduce burdens on domestic energy producers.
To find out more, read the entire press release here.