DEEP Act

The DEEP Act (S 3433) creates a new nationwide permit for dredging projects at U.S. ports and navigation channels, allowing activities like maintenance, expansion, or deepening up to 60 feet. It directly affects port authorities, dredging contractors, and state environmental agencies by requiring states to respond to certification requests within 14 days (or the request is deemed complete) and setting strict timelines for federal approvals (30 days for complete applications). Key provisions streamline environmental reviews under NEPA by limiting required documents to one environmental impact statement and requiring the Army Corps to prioritize feasible mitigation over prohibitions. The bill also excludes dredged material from certain transportation regulations and prevents states from demanding re-filing for the same activity after a certification is deemed complete.