REFINER Act

Researching Efficient Federal Improvements for Necessary Energy Refining Act or the REFINER Act

This bill requires the Department of Energy to direct the National Petroleum Council to publish a report on petrochemical refineries located in the United States. The report must include information concerning (1) the contributions of such refineries to U.S. energy security, (2) a projection for expanding the capacities of the refineries, (3) any federal or state executive actions that have contributed to a decline in their capacities, and (4) any recommendations to increase such capacities.

The REFINER Act, also known as Bill 118 hr 1085, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress that aims to streamline the process for approving permits for energy infrastructure projects, specifically refineries. The bill seeks to expedite the approval process for new refineries and expansions of existing refineries by setting deadlines for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to review and approve permit applications.

The REFINER Act also includes provisions to increase transparency and accountability in the permitting process, requiring the EPA to provide regular updates on the status of permit applications and to justify any delays in the approval process. Additionally, the bill aims to reduce regulatory burdens on refineries by streamlining the permitting process and eliminating duplicative regulations.

Supporters of the REFINER Act argue that it will help to promote economic growth and job creation by making it easier for refineries to expand and modernize their facilities. They also claim that the bill will help to ensure a reliable and affordable supply of energy for consumers. Critics of the REFINER Act, however, raise concerns about potential environmental impacts of expediting the approval process for refineries. They argue that the bill could lead to increased air and water pollution, as well as other negative environmental consequences. Overall, the REFINER Act is a controversial piece of legislation that seeks to balance the need for economic growth and job creation with concerns about environmental protection and public health. It remains to be seen whether the bill will ultimately be passed into law and what its impact will be on the energy industry and the environment.