Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Jim Inhofe (R-OK) joined Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) to introduce a bill to allow critical infrastructure project proponents to continue relying on the nationwide permit (NWP) program in light of recent court decisions. Along with Lankford and Inhofe, cosponsors on the bill include Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX), John Barrasso (R-WY), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), John Hoeven (R-ND), Steve Daines (R-MT), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK).

“Oklahoma families depend on the development of critical infrastructure to keep our economy moving forward,” said Lankford. “Too frequently, the regulatory process is used as a tool to stop development rather than to ensure projects are done in an environmentally responsible manner. The American people are the ones who suffer when responsible infrastructure projects are delayed or denied.

“The United States leads the world in oil and gas production and we’re on track to be a net energy exporter,” Inhofe said. “While liberal activists are attempting to hijack the federal permitting process, we have the opportunity to allow for investment in our nation’s infrastructure and, once we are on the other side of this pandemic, our energy producers here at home will be able to meet the increased demand. I am proud to join Senator Cornyn’s bill and continue advocating for the Oklahoma energy industry.”