Will the Permitting Bill Succeed? Hurdles Ahead for a Deal

As the permitting bill inches closer to becoming a reality, it's encountering a bevy of obstacles. Despite the initial agreement, convincing lawmakers from both sides of the aisle is no easy feat. Key Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has expressed his willingness to consider the bill, but hasn't explicitly endorsed it yet. Meanwhile, House Natural Resources Committee Chair Bruce Westerman is optimistic about the Manchin-Barrasso language, stating it will "mesh really well" with their own efforts. But what if this assumption is wrong? What if constituents' voices fail to resonate with lawmakers, leading to a stalemate? The Senate's packed legislative calendar, with a lengthy August recess and limited time in October and November, raises questions about the bill's viability. Will Senator Barrasso's efforts to communicate with relevant members and offices bear fruit, or will the bill stall? It's crucial to break down the complex landscape into manageable chunks. Here are the key points to consider:* The Senate is expected to be out for an extended period, leaving limited time for the bill to move through the legislative process. * Lawmakers' focus on reelection campaigns and the presidential race might divert attention from the bill. * Senator Barrasso and his staff are working to advance the bill during the lame-duck session of Congress – but will this be enough to overcome existing hurdles? One might question whether the bill's proponents have considered alternative approaches, such as working with lawmakers during the summer recess to build support. Are there any potential alliances or compromises that could be forged? What about engaging with stakeholders outside of Washington to raise awareness and build momentum? By examining these questions and potential obstacles, we can better understand the challenges facing the permitting bill. Will it be able to clear the hurdles and become a reality, or will it falter and fade away?