Poll Finds Voters Back Permitting Reform Bill

A bipartisan Senate permitting proposal, the American Affordability and Jobs Act, would accelerate federal reviews for energy, mining, manufacturing and infrastructure projects, while requiring data centers to cover grid costs they create. Supporters say clearer timelines and fewer procedural delays could boost domestic investment and jobs, strengthen energy and mineral security, and improve infrastructure while retaining environmental protections and public input. A Third Way poll found broad voter support for permitting reform, with respondents especially receptive to holding data centers accountable, creating jobs and improving infrastructure; lowering utility bills and keeping power on were their top electricity priorities. Oklahoma Sen. Alan Armstrong is also pressing for permitting legislation before his expected departure from the Senate, but expressed concern that the House could prove an obstacle.