WASHINGTON (Oct. 1, 2026) – The American Chemistry Council (ACC) today released the following statement in support of S. 5653, the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act. This bipartisan legislation is introduced by Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chairman Mike Lee (R-UT) and Senate Environment and Public Works Committee Chairman Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) along with Ranking Members Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).
"The legislation would modernize federal environmental review and permitting processes for infrastructure projects, provide greater certainty for federal permits and authorizations, and help enable the all-of-the-above energy resources needed to meet America's growing energy and manufacturing demands.
"ACC supports provisions that provide greater certainty for project developers and investors by establishing clearer permitting processes and reinforcing the durability of federal authorizations. Long approval timelines and regulatory uncertainty can delay critical investments, increase costs, and make it harder for the United States to compete globally.
“Our domestic energy and feedstock supply chains are undergoing a period of rapid change and evolution, driven by growing energy demand, constrained energy generation and supply infrastructure, and the proliferation of new energy-intensive industries bringing unique challenges to electric grids and natural gas distribution systems. ACC supports the bill’s targeted approach to addressing these challenges while continuing to support domestic energy and industrial supply chains.
“The legislation also includes important reforms to Clean Water Act Section 401 reviews that help ensure reviews remain focused on water quality impacts, consistent with the law's intent, while reducing opportunities for unnecessary delays that can jeopardize infrastructure investments and increase costs for American consumers.
"These reforms are particularly important as the United States works to expand the energy and industrial infrastructure needed to support economic growth, strengthen energy security, and meet rising demand across the economy.
"The United States needs significant new energy and industrial infrastructure in the years ahead, including an estimated 37,000 miles of additional pipeline capacity, expanded electricity transmission, and modern manufacturing facilities. Meeting those needs will require a permitting system that delivers timely, science-based decisions and greater certainty for project developers. This bipartisan legislation recognizes that economic growth, affordability, energy security, and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.
"ACC is encouraged that Senate leaders have designated the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act as among the first items of business when Congress returns following the November midterm elections. Early consideration of this legislation would demonstrate a bipartisan commitment to advancing the infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing projects needed to strengthen America's competitiveness and ensuring America can build, power, and compete in the decades ahead."
