WASHINGTON, October 22, 2026 — The American Petroleum Institute (API) joined with 137 organizations representing energy, labor, manufacturing, housing, transportation, infrastructure and businesses across the country in urging congressional leaders to bring the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act of 2026 (S. 5653) to the floor and pass comprehensive permitting reform before the end of the year.
In a letter to House and Senate leaders, the groups warned that lengthy permitting delays are driving up costs, holding back investment and slowing the infrastructure Americans need. The organizations called on Congress to seize a rare bipartisan opportunity to modernize the nation's permitting system and strengthen economic competitiveness.
"With Americans focused on rising costs, permitting reform presents Congress with one of its most consequential opportunities to address affordability this Congress," the groups wrote. "Modernizing the nation's permitting system can help improve energy affordability, strengthen economic competitiveness, unlock investment, and restore confidence in the nation's ability to build critical infrastructure."
The coalition represents industries across the economy that depend on timely infrastructure development, from energy production and delivery to housing, manufacturing, transportation and construction. Its message to Congress is clear: America cannot afford another year of costly delays.
The letter calls for reforms to the National Environmental Policy Act, Clean Water Act permitting and judicial review processes to establish more predictable timelines, reduce duplicative reviews and provide greater certainty for investment while maintaining environmental protections.
"America cannot meet rising demand, strengthen domestic manufacturing, or maintain affordability of energy and other essential products if it cannot build the infrastructure those goals require," the organizations wrote.
With bipartisan legislation now introduced in the Senate, the groups urged congressional leaders to move the bill forward this fall and deliver lasting reform.
Read the full coalition letter.
The American Petroleum Institute (API) represents all segments of America’s oil and natural gas industry, supporting nearly 11 million U.S. jobs. With approximately 600 members, API companies produce, process, and distribute the majority of the nation’s energy. Founded in 1919, API has developed over 800 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
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