Jeff Denham: “This amendment seeks to undermine an important streamlining provision in the bill that sets firm deadlines for filing…”

“This amendment seeks to undermine an important streamlining provision in the bill that sets firm deadlines for filing claims. In order to cause maximum delays, opponents of projects often wait until the final possible day to file claims. Setting firm reasonable deadlines has no impact on legal rights. This bill is limited in the types of claims that receive the expedited review to just three: validity of final orders, constitutionality of the act, and adequacy of the Environmental Impact Statement. These claims must be filed within 60 days of the final order or action giving rise to that claim. No other claim is affected by the 60- day filing deadline. Because of the limitations on types of claims covered by the deadline, 2 months is more than ample time to file with the D.C. circuit. Extending to a new year is simply one more delay tactic. With that, I urge a ``no'' vote and yield back the balance of my time. The Acting CHAIR. The question is on the amendment offered by the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson Lee). The question was taken; and the Acting Chair announced that the noes appeared to have it.”