Grid reform bill introduced in Senate

A bipartisan group of senators introduced the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act of 2026, which includes provisions to reform the electric grid by accelerating permitting and cost allocation for new power users. The bill was co-sponsored by Sens. Shelley Moore Capito, Sheldon Whitehouse, Mike Lee and Martin Heinrich, following months of negotiations led by Senate committees and the administration. Supporters argue the reforms aim to streamline outdated processes that have delayed critical infrastructure projects for years.

Sen. Mike Lee highlighted the need for faster permitting, comparing modern delays to the rapid construction of historic projects like the Hoover Dam and Golden Gate Bridge. The bill would require the largest new electricity users to cover their fair share of grid costs and expedite connections for new power supplies. It also targets transmission bottlenecks by designating FERC as the lead agency for coordinating federal reviews under multiple environmental laws.

The legislation prioritizes upgrades within existing rights of way, such as reconductoring and grid-enhancing technologies, without requiring new federal environmental reviews. Patrick Hughes of Americans for a Clean Energy Grid praised the bill for addressing grid fragmentation and regional planning, emphasizing its focus on aligning costs with benefits for new transmission lines.

Opposition has emerged from the 106 Strong Coalition, which includes Tribal Nations and community groups. They argue the bill weakens Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, reducing protections for sacred sites and historic neighborhoods during federal infrastructure projects. Greg Werkheiser of the coalition criticized Sens. Heinrich and Whitehouse for supporting provisions that he claims undermine Tribal consultation and environmental safeguards.