On December 12, 2023, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill aimed at expediting the federal permitting process for interstate natural gas pipelines, with a vote of 213-184. This legislation, known as the Improving Interagency Coordination for Pipeline Reviews Act, empowers the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to consider water quality assessments during its environmental review process. This change is intended to reduce delays caused by the need for separate certifications under the Clean Water Act from individual states, which have historically extended the permitting timeline.

The bill is part of a broader legislative effort to accelerate permitting processes for energy infrastructure projects, responding to increasing energy demands, particularly from data centers, and rising household energy costs. FERC, which typically consists of five members nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate, has a history of approving the majority of natural gas pipeline proposals. Mike Sommers, President of the American Petroleum Institute, emphasized the necessity of these legislative measures to unlock infrastructure needed for affordable and reliable energy.

In parallel, Congress is facing a critical deadline regarding health care subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). House Republicans are preparing to vote on a health care package that notably excludes an extension of enhanced subsidies, which are set to expire on January 1, 2026. These subsidies have been crucial for many Americans in affording health insurance. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson criticized the ACA, asserting it has negatively impacted the American health care system.

Despite some moderate Republicans expressing concerns about the political ramifications of allowing the subsidies to lapse, the proposed health care package does not include provisions to extend these credits. Representative Kevin Kiley of California criticized the plan as inadequate, emphasizing that over 20 million individuals currently relying on ACA credits should not suffer due to congressional inaction.

The House GOP bill includes several components reflecting longstanding Republican health care priorities, such as allowing small businesses to form associations to purchase health coverage and reinstating federal funding for cost-sharing subsidies. However, experts have raised concerns that these measures may not effectively reduce overall health care costs and could lead to increased premiums for some enrollees.

As discussions continue, the urgency to resolve the subsidy issue grows, with many lawmakers worried about the potential impact on health care access and affordability for millions of Americans. The Senate is also grappling with health care proposals, with recent Democratic initiatives failing to gain traction among Republicans. The outcome of these legislative efforts will have significant implications for both energy infrastructure and health care affordability in the United States.