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# FASTER Act of 2023 Summary The FASTER Act streamlines federal permitting for major electric transmission projects that cross state lines. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) can now issue permits for high-voltage transmission facilities when states fail to act within a year, reject projects, or lack authority to consider interstate benefits. Projects must be designated as "national interest" corridors by the Department of Energy based on transmission capacity needs and national energy policy goals. The bill requires transmission developers to engage early with affected communities and landowners through a mandatory prefiling process and, where possible, community benefit agreements that specify measurable commitments like local jobs and infrastructure investments. Developers can use eminent domain to acquire necessary land rights if good faith engagement efforts fail. The permitting process has a three-year target completion timeline, with FERC coordinating all federal agencies involved and preparing a single environmental review document. The President can appeal agency denials, and states can create regional transmission siting agencies to handle their own permits. The legislation authorizes spending from transmission project revenues for habitat restoration, recreational access, and federal permit coordination in affected regions. It also gives FERC hiring flexibility to recruit specialized staff for the expanded responsibilities. These changes are designed to accelerate transmission development needed for grid reliability, renewable energy integration, and energy independence while maintaining environmental and community protections.

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