DEEP Act

The DEEP Act would create a new nationwide permit for dredging projects at U.S. ports and navigation channels, allowing for maintenance, expansion, or deepening of ports up to 60 feet. It sets strict deadlines for state water quality certifications (14 days for initial determination, 1 year for final decision) and limits the Environmental Protection Agency's authority over dredged material disposal sites. The permit would be valid for up to 10 years, and the bill repeals existing provisions about dredged material transportation. This legislation primarily affects port dredging projects, the Army Corps of Engineers, and state environmental agencies by streamlining the permitting process while maintaining environmental safeguards.