Bureaucracy exists to serve itself, rather than the taxpaying public. Bureaucrats can wield licenses, permits, deadlines and other forms of red tape like precision weapons. Their zeal in doing so has bogged down our economic diversification and growth for too long.

But a plan presented by U.S. Sens. Joe Manchin, I-W.Va., and John Barrasso, R-Wyo., could speed things back up, at least for one sector. The Energy Permitting Reform Act of 2024 is meant to eliminate some of the time and hoops that stall energy projects of all kinds.

“The United States of America is blessed with abundant natural resources that have powered our nation to greatness and allow us to help our friends and allies around the world. Unfortunately, today our outdated permitting system is stifling our economic growth, geopolitical strength, and ability to reduce emissions. … The Energy Permitting Reform Act will advance American energy once again to bring down prices, create domestic jobs, and allow us to continue in our role as a global energy leader. The time to act on it is now,” Manchin said.

Lest anyone worry this is a proposal aimed strictly at helping fossil fuels projects, the act would also double production targets for renewable energy permitting on federal lands, modernize geothermal leasing and permitting, require more frequent offshore wind lease sales and allow the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to extend start-construction deadlines for certain existing hydropower licenses.

Of course, there are efforts to streamline processes for fossil fuels projects and traditional power plants, too. There is also language to ensure strengthening of our electric grid. It’s an effort to thin the energy permitting web for ALL projects.

A reduced bureaucracy is almost always a good idea. In this case, the effort is in the name of taking the brakes off a diversifying industry that powers the nation.

Senators should waste no time in giving it thorough consideration.