H.R. 6640: Build Now Act

This bill, known as the Build Now Act, aims to streamline and expedite the environmental review process for certain projects related to the Central Valley Project (CVP) in California. The key features of the bill are outlined below:

1. Environmental Review Timeline

The bill mandates that if a project requires a federally issued permit and includes environmental review, that review must be completed within one year from the date the application is submitted.

2. Consequences for Failing to Meet Deadlines

If the agency responsible for the environmental review does not complete it within the specified timeline, the following actions may be taken:

• The head of the agency must either:
  • Grant an extension for the environmental review, with the applicant's approval, or
  • Deny the permit altogether.

3. Options Following Denial

In cases where a permit is denied due to failure to meet the timeline, the applicant has the right to re-apply for the permit at any time. Additionally, upon re-application, the agency must provide the applicant with any relevant information gathered during the previous environmental review, if permitted by law, to help expedite the new review process.

4. Definitions

The bill provides clear definitions for key terms:

• CVP enhancement project: Refers to projects intended to support or maintain the Central Valley Project, which may include:
  • Groundwater recharge projects
  • Aquifer storage projects
  • Water source substitution projects
• Environmental review: Involves complying with the requirements under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and the Endangered Species Act of 1973.

Impact Scope

The bill specifically addresses CVP enhancement projects and aims to optimize the processes that can delay the implementation of these projects, especially in regard to environmental compliance and permitting.

Relevant Companies

• SRE (Sempra Energy): A utility company that could be affected by expedited processes for water-related projects, which may impact their operations in California.
• PCG (Pacific Gas and Electric Company): Energy supplier that might engage in CVP enhancement projects for its infrastructure in California, influencing its environmental compliance timelines.