FAI Playbook Offers State-Level Solutions to Streamline Environmental Permitting Across 32 States

The Foundation for American Innovation (FAI) has released its "State Permitting Playbook," a comprehensive guide aimed at assisting state legislators and manufacturers' associations in improving environmental permitting processes. The initiative, highlighted by FAI Senior Fellow for Energy Emmet Penney, seeks to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and accelerate development across the United States. The playbook, authored by Thomas Hochman, provides detailed recommendations for 32 states.

The Foundation for American Innovation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit think tank, focuses on the intersection of innovation, governance, and national security. Its mission is to foster a "better, freer, and more abundant future" by advocating for market-driven solutions and minimizing regulatory obstacles. This aligns with the emerging "abundance" movement, which champions regulatory reform to boost economic development.

The "State Permitting Playbook" delves into four critical environmental laws at the state level: State Environmental Policy Acts (SEPAs), the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and State Endangered Species Acts (SESAs). It offers a two-part structure, first outlining general issues and reforms for each law, then providing specific, tailored recommendations for individual states. The playbook emphasizes that over 75 percent of federally authorized permits are issued by states, underscoring their significant autonomy and potential for reform.

Current environmental regulations, while crucial for protection, have often led to lengthy delays and excessive costs, hindering economic progress and infrastructure development. The playbook argues that states can streamline these processes without compromising environmental safeguards, thereby fostering economic growth and attracting investment in manufacturing, energy, and technology. Emmet Penney underscored the urgency of this effort, stating on social media, "> It's time to build."

The playbook has reportedly seen wide circulation among state legislative bodies and executive teams. States like Montana and Utah are exploring reforms, including permit-by-rule and general permitting options, following the playbook's guidance. The FAI encourages state officials and industry groups to utilize the playbook's insights and engage directly with its experts to implement these proposed changes.