ePermit Act

The deadline for CEQ to develop and publish data standards was shortened from 180 days to 60 days after enactment, a threefold acceleration.

The deadline for CEQ to publish implementation guidance was extended from 30 days to 120 days after enactment, giving agencies four times more time.

The authorization of appropriations providing $1,000,000 per year for fiscal years 2026 through 2032 (to remain available until expended) was removed entirely.

Contract authority for CEQ was made contingent on 'the availability of appropriations' rather than being unconditional.

A new provision gives Congress access to data, fine-tuning procedures, and prompt configurations specifically created or adapted for AI systems used to support environmental review or authorization activities, excluding proprietary or general pretraining materials.

The word 'centralized' was removed from the description of the authorization portal platform, and a new requirement was added that it be supported by 'a decentralized, cross-network digital infrastructure software that ensures vendor neutrality and interoperability.'

The Senate committee receiving annual progress reports was changed from the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.

A new savings clause (section 10) states that any data system, technology, or tool not limited by project type shall not have its use restricted by project type.

Prototype tools must now include public comment opportunity tracking portals to increase transparency, in addition to the existing application submission and tracking portals.

The term 'case management systems' was broadened to 'case and project management systems' in multiple locations, expanding the scope of covered tools.

The phrase 'vendor neutral' or 'vendor neutrality' was added throughout the bill - in findings, data standards requirements, cybersecurity considerations, and the definition of data standards.