Big Tech faces key House vote on reforming permit process

Big Tech companies like OpenAI, Meta, and Microsoft are advocating for the SPEED Act. This legislation aims to expedite the federal permitting process for AI infrastructure development in the U.S. Advocates argue it is essential for competing with China in the AI sector to rapidly build out and expand data centers.

The bill seeks to amend the National Environmental Policy Act to streamline environmental reviews and reduce litigation times. Some bipartisan support exists, but challenges remain, particularly from the House Republican Freedom Caucus opposing certain amendments.

Democrats express concerns that the bill may undermine environmental protections. Negotiations continue as lawmakers aim to address a broader reform of federal permitting processes.