Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum announced a sweeping reform Wednesday to drastically shorten federal permitting times for energy projects.
Under the new policy, approvals that once took up to two years could now be completed in just 28 days. The expedited process applies to projects involving coal, uranium, and critical minerals—resources central to U.S. energy independence and national security.
The announcement follows President Donald Trump’s executive order streamlining reviews for ten key mineral mining projects and the launch of the Federal Permitting Dashboard, which aims to improve transparency and interagency coordination.
Burgum’s reforms impact permitting under major environmental laws, including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Endangered Species Act, and the National Historic Preservation Act. Officials argue the move will accelerate infrastructure development, strengthen supply chains, and reduce dependence on foreign minerals.
“This tool will play an invaluable role in ensuring that these projects receive the most efficient review and authorization process possible,” said Manisha Patel, acting executive director of the Permitting Council.
The policy reflects the administration’s broader push to fast-track American energy and mining projects as part of its economic and strategic agenda.
