House Joint Memorial No. 2 expresses the Idaho Legislature's concerns regarding the complexities and inefficiencies of federal permitting and environmental review processes that hinder the construction of essential energy infrastructure. The Memorial highlights the need for reforms to streamline these processes, particularly under laws such as the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Clean Water Act (CWA). It emphasizes that delays in permitting not only increase costs and reduce the viability of energy projects but also contribute to greater dependence on foreign energy sources and limit investments in modernizing the nation's infrastructure.

The Legislature urges the United States Congress to enact reforms that would expedite the deployment of new energy infrastructure, including measures to limit excessive judicial processes, prevent misuse of environmental laws that obstruct energy projects, and improve accountability for federal agencies involved in permitting. The Memorial calls for a comprehensive approach to modernize the permitting system, ensuring that it supports the construction of a reliable and efficient energy grid while promoting economic and environmental stewardship. A copy of this Memorial will be forwarded to relevant congressional leaders and Idaho's congressional delegation.