Congressman Tim Moore Introduces SALAMANDER Act to Speed Up Army Corps Permits After Natural Disasters

WASHINGTON, D.C. -Recently, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) introduced H.R.6693, the Streamlining Authorizations for Listed At-risk Marine and Aquatic Natural Disaster Emergency Resources (SALAMANDER) Act,to create an expedited permitting process for post-disaster recovery work led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

"After Hurricane Helene, recovery efforts in Western North Carolina hit bureaucratic delays that slowed down critical work like dredging and debris removal," said Congressman Moore. "The SALAMANDER Act cuts through that red tape so communities can start rebuilding immediately, while still protecting vulnerable habitats."

Specifically, the SALAMANDER Act gives the Army Corps of Engineers the ability to fast-track permits for certain recovery projects, like dredging rivers or clearing debris, after a natural disaster is declared. Typically, these permits take months due to lengthy environmental reviews, even when the work is urgently needed to protect lives and property.

Under this bill, the Army Corps can issue general permits in advance, with input from federal environmental agencies, so recovery work can start immediately. These permits are valid for 18 months and must follow strict best practices designed to protect endangered species and their habitats. The bill also requires the Corps to coordinate with state wildlife officials and create clear national guidelines so the process works the same way across the country.

This legislation is cosponsored by Rep. Chuck Edwards (NC-11).

Read the text of the bill HERE.