SE North Carolina News

WASHINGTON, DC - The bipartisan Supply Chain Caucus led by Congressman David Rouzer (R-NC), Congressman Dusty Johnson (R-SD), and Congressman Colin Allred (D-TX) hosted a roundtable with key industry stakeholders to highlight the importance of a reliable Supply Chain to the construction, utility, and manufacturing industries.  The group discussed ways policymakers can alleviate supply chain and permitting disruptions resulting in large-scale delays and economic loss.

"Permitting delays are a key cause for supply chain disruptions that stifle important construction, utility, and manufacturing projects across the country," said Congressman Rouzer. "I thank each of our participants for partnering with the Supply Chain Caucus to highlight these permitting challenges and to collaborate on solutions to keep projects and goods moving."

“Energy and construction projects encounter too many delays and roadblocks throughout the permitting process," said Congressman Johnson. "It’s evident reforms are needed so projects can start and end in a timely manner. Yesterday’s discussion highlighted the shortcomings and solutions to improve the process so America can be the global leader in supply chain efficiency.”

“To take full advantage of the incentives in legislation passed last year, like the CHIPS Act, we have to make sure we get projects approved in a timely manner," said Congressman Allred.  "And that means making commonsense changes to the permitting process. It’s why I helped introduce bipartisan legislation, the Building Chips in America Act, to do just that. As a Co-chair of the Supply Chain Caucus, I am proud we convened this roundtable to find common-sense ways to cut red tape, streamline the permitting review process and grow our economy."

“I’m thrilled to see the leadership of the House Supply Chain Caucus focus on the severity of our permitting challenges and the need for bipartisan legislation. It will be impossible to lower energy prices, reduce emissions, or secure our supply chains if it takes years and years to begin building infrastructure projects. Reps. David Rouzer (R-NC), Colin Allred (D-TX), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), and Angie Craig (D-MN) deserve credit for understanding how a flawed permitting process will stifle U.S. development. BPC appreciates their leadership in hosting bipartisan discussions to share knowledge and find common ground.” – Xan Fishman, Director of Energy Policy & Carbon Management, Bipartisan Policy Center

"Over the last two years, Congress has adopted the largest infrastructure investment in our nation’s history, a revitalization of our domestic manufacturing base and a reshaping of our energy future. Our permitting environment must allow for the production and delivery of billions of tons of aggregates that will be used to pave new transportation networks; build new manufacturing hubs; and construct the networks that deliver reliable and renewable energy to every American home. We thank the Members of Congress for holding yesterday’s discussion to find solutions that address permitting challenges." – Gary Johnson, National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association

“Supply chain delays and escalating supply and delivery costs are having a major negative impact on public clean water utilities operations and projects and the ability of local communities to cost-effectively plan long-term. These challenges are further compounded by significant workforce issues across the clean water utility sector and the need for greater regulatory certainty. NACWA appreciates the opportunity to participate in yesterday's Supply Chain Caucus roundtable. The Association and our public utility members look forward to further collaboration with Congress on ways to address these challenges and ensure local communities can continue providing the essential and affordable clean water services that families and small businesses depend upon each day.” – Adam Krantz, CEO, National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA)

Original source can be found here.