Exclusive: Manufacturers launch permitting ads
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The National Association of Manufacturers on Monday unveiled its first ads urging Congress to approve the bipartisan Senate plan that would speed up permitting for energy projects and other infrastructure.
Why it matters: Faster and more certain permitting is the top priority for powerful business and industry groups in the waning months of this Congress.
Driving the news: "America's manufacturers are ready to go, but Congress needs to clear the path. Years of red tape have stalled important projects, raising costs and slowing progress in communities across the country," the ad states.
- The initial five-figure buy is running on YouTube and streaming platforms like Hulu, Disney+, Peacock, Roku and Tubi.
Catch up quick: Top Democrats and Republicans on the Senate's energy and environment panels released the compromise bill last week, with votes expected in the lame duck session of Congress.
How it works: The sweeping bill would set new deadlines on litigation and environmental reviews under several statutes.
- It also has "project certainty" language to prevent the federal government from thwarting permits issued after mid-September 2026.
- It would create a stronger federal hand in siting large transmission lines, and requires data center developers to cover costs of generation and grid upgrades to serve their projects.
Friction point: Some groups on the left flank of the environmental movement oppose the bill, and a key House Democrat is against a lame duck deal.
- But several of the green NGOs with the closest ties to Democrats are still forming their position, citing trade-offs.
- Fossil fuel, mining, and clean energy groups support the legislation.
The battle lines are still shaking out, but the bill has garnered support from three unions so far:
- The Laborers' International Union of North America, the United Association that represents plumbers and pipefitters, and the International Union of Operating Engineers.
The intrigue: Jennifer Granholm, who was President Biden's energy secretary, also gave it a thumbs-up in a LinkedIn post.
What's next: Expect intense lobbying and advocacy in the coming weeks.
- "Manufacturers are going to be working tirelessly across the country over the October recess to talk about the importance of this bill," NAM said in a statement.
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