The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the SPEED Act, legislation designed to accelerate federal permitting for infrastructure projects that support artificial intelligence development. The bill cleared the House by a narrow 218-213 vote and now moves to the Senate, where it is expected to become part of a broader debate over permitting reform.
Supporters of the measure argue that the United States must expand its AI capabilities quickly to remain competitive with China and other global rivals. Backers, including major technology companies such as OpenAI, Microsoft, and Micron Technology, say faster permitting is necessary to build the energy and infrastructure required to power advanced AI systems and data centers.
The legislation would modify parts of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the 1969 law that requires environmental reviews for major federal projects. Among its key provisions, the SPEED Act would shorten the statute of limitations for NEPA-related lawsuits from six years to 150 days and impose stricter timelines for environmental reviews.
Supporters contend that lengthy permitting delays have slowed critical infrastructure projects, including energy developments needed to meet growing electricity demand. Representative Bruce Westerman, the bill’s sponsor, described the energy required for AI computing as a national priority for both civilian and military applications.
Despite bipartisan support for permitting reform, most Democrats opposed the bill. Critics objected to provisions related to President Donald Trump’s policies on renewable energy, arguing that the measure does not adequately protect projects such as offshore wind development.
The legislation comes as the Trump administration increases its focus on AI infrastructure. A newly announced U.S. Tech Force program will recruit approximately 1,000 engineers and technology specialists to work on federal AI initiatives. Participants will collaborate with government agencies and leading technology companies, reflecting a broader effort to strengthen America’s position in the rapidly evolving global AI race.
