By Senator Alan Armstrong (R-OK) for NOTUS

The most consequential energy issue in Washington may also be the most underappreciated: permitting reform. America has the abundant low-cost resources, technology, capital and workforce to remain the global leader in energy — but our own permitting processes are standing in our way. Having spent 40 years in the private sector before coming to the Senate, I have seen firsthand how our current regulatory system — governed by well-meaning but outdated laws from the 1970s — is slowly strangling our nation’s ability to lead in this fast-paced world ahead of us.

I am encouraged by the bipartisan momentum to pass meaningful permitting reform this year — a growing coalition of my colleagues across both political parties are fed up with the status quo. We have a narrow window before the end of this Congress to enact a durable, technology-neutral plan that helps build all forms of energy infrastructure. By establishing predictable reviews, preventing the weaponization of permitting laws, and providing greater certainty after permits are issued, we can unlock private investment here in the U.S. to deliver our abundant low-cost energy without costing taxpayers a dime. This would restore America’s legacy as a nation of builders and lower utility bills, and meet the enormous energy demands of reindustrialization and the AI revolution.

Republican Sen. Alan Armstrong represents Oklahoma.