# Ohio Senators Discuss Federal Permitting Reform

On October 13, 2026, Senators Jon Husted and John Barrasso convened a roundtable in Columbus, Ohio, to discuss federal permitting reform and the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act (S. 5653). The proposal would establish environmental review deadlines, limit certain lawsuits under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), protect issued permits, and require data centers using at least 20 megawatts to cover their energy costs. The bill has not been enacted; a Senate vote is expected after the October state work period.

- Contractors in energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, and grid modernization may benefit from shorter permitting timelines if the proposal becomes law; companies should distinguish the bill’s proposed changes from current requirements.
- Developers and suppliers serving data centers that use at least 20 megawatts should evaluate how the proposed energy-cost provision could affect project economics and customer demand if enacted.
- Because a Senate vote is expected after the October state work period, businesses with permitting-dependent projects can follow the bill’s progress as a specific pending legislative action.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure, Energy & Utilities
**Topics:** Policy, Regulatory Compliance
**Published:** October 14, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Senate (Senate)
- Senate Environment and Public Works Committee (EPW Committee)

### Key Quotes
> We can’t build Ohio’s energy future and lower costs for working families if it takes up to a decade just to get a permit.
> — Jon Husted, U.S. Senator for Ohio

> The Senate has also negotiated bipartisan permitting legislation. We need to pass these reforms this year.
> — John Barrasso, Senate Majority Whip

### Sources
- [Husted, Barrasso host permitting reform roundtable in Columbus](https://www.husted.senate.gov/media/press-releases/husted-barrasso-host-permitting-reform-roundtable-in-columbus/) - Husted Senate