CURRENT Act

The CURRENT Act modifies the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to streamline how states and federal agencies issue certifications for energy and transmission projects. It requires these agencies to publish clear certification rules, set a strict one-year deadline to decide on requests, and base decisions solely on whether a project will violate specific water quality laws. The bill also mandates that denials or conditions must be supported by clear and convincing evidence showing no reasonable way exists to meet environmental standards, while protecting applicants from having certifications reopened without a court order. Additionally, it establishes a fast-track judicial review process for energy projects, requiring courts to issue final rulings within 120 days.