Proposed EPA Rulemaking Would Increase Permitting Uncertainty, Delays

WASHINGTON, June 2, 2022 – The American Petroleum Institute (API) today released the following statement from API Vice President of Midstream Policy Robin Rorick in response to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed rulemaking for Section 401 of the Clean Water Act (CWA).

“At a time of increasing regulatory uncertainty and high energy costs, adding bureaucratic red tape is the exact opposite of what is needed. A consistent and transparent process for water quality certifications for energy developers and manufacturers is critical to develop vital energy infrastructure and meet increased global demand. We support the Clean Water Act and are concerned these actions would counteract the well-defined timeline and review process enacted by Congress, increasing permitting delays and allowing states to go well beyond their scope for water quality certifications. As we review the current rulemaking, we look forward to working with EPA to express our concerns and improve the permitting process.”

API represents all segments of America’s natural gas and oil industry, which supports more than 11 million U.S. jobs and is backed by a growing grassroots movement of millions of Americans. Our 600 members produce, process and distribute the majority of the nation’s energy, and participate in API Energy Excellence®, which is accelerating environmental and safety progress by fostering new technologies and transparent reporting. API was formed in 1919 as a standards-setting organization and has developed more than 800 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency and sustainability.

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