On the recordMarch 6, 2014
The amendment is unnecessary and could needlessly block important energy construction projects from breaking ground. The March 2011 ``Project No Project'' study identified 351 energy projects, including nuclear projects, that, if approved, could generate $1.1 trillion for the economy and create 1.9 million jobs annually. I appreciate that my colleague is concerned about the safety of nuclear power, including in earthquake fault zones. The RAPID Act does not require agencies to approve or deny any particular project or permit application. It simply ensures that the environmental review and permitting process is conducted by agencies in an efficient and transparent manner. It is consistent with the administration's own guidance, the President's Jobs Council's recommendations, prior, bipartisan legislation, and the all-of-the-above energy strategy that America needs. I urge my colleagues to oppose the amendment, and I reserve the balance of my time.
