POWER Act

Protecting Our Wealth of Energy Resources Act of 2023 or the POWER Act

This bill requires the President and federal agencies to obtain the approval of Congress before prohibiting or substantially delaying certain new energy or mineral leases or permits on federal lands. Specifically, approval must be obtained for new (1) oil and gas leases, drill permits, approvals, or authorizations; (2) coal leases, permits, approvals, or authorizations; and (3) mineral patents, leases, permits, approvals, or authorizations.

In addition, the President and agencies must obtain the approval of Congress before withdrawing certain federal lands from mineral and geothermal leasing activities.

The POWER Act, also known as Bill 118 s 319, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The purpose of the POWER Act is to address issues related to the use of federal funds for infrastructure projects. Specifically, the bill aims to ensure that federal agencies prioritize the use of American-made products and materials in these projects.

The bill requires federal agencies to include provisions in their contracts that require contractors to use materials and products that are made in the United States. This is intended to support American manufacturers and workers, as well as to promote economic growth and job creation within the country.

Additionally, the POWER Act includes measures to increase transparency and accountability in the use of federal funds for infrastructure projects. It requires federal agencies to report on the amount of American-made products and materials used in these projects, as well as any waivers granted for the use of foreign-made products. Overall, the POWER Act is aimed at promoting the use of American-made products and materials in federal infrastructure projects, in order to support domestic manufacturing and job creation. The bill also seeks to increase transparency and accountability in the use of federal funds for these projects.