Support for Environment Subcommittee Brownfields and Permitting Reform Legislation

Dear Chair Palmer and Ranking Member Tonko:

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is pleased to support the Subcommittee's efforts to leverage the potential of America's brownfields sites. Enhancing existing programs and advancing permitting reform would accelerate critical infrastructure projects across our nation.

The Brownfields Program is a bipartisan, consensus-driven initiative that delivers significant economic and environmental benefits to local communities. By facilitating the cleanup and reuse of contaminated properties, the program not only revitalizes neighborhoods but also boosts job creation, property values, and investment. The inclusion of provisions, such as a new low-interest loan pilot, a National Environmental Policy Act exemption, and expanded eligibility for critical infrastructure priorities (e.g., energy, artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, semiconductors, and critical minerals) will provide important financing and technical assistance tools to ensure the deployment of transformative technologies and resources.

In addition, modernizing the federal permitting process is critical to unlocking the full potential of infrastructure investments. Permitting reform is vital to America's competitiveness and economic growth, from expanding broadband access and upgrading transportation networks to building innovative energy facilities that will provide new sources of power to meet growing demand and modernizing drinking water systems.

Thank you for your leadership in advancing these important legislative efforts. We look forward to continued collaboration to build a stronger, more resilient future for all Americans.

Sincerely,

Rodney Davis
Senior Vice President
Government Affairs
U.S. Chamber of Commerce