HR301-119

What This Bill Does

The Geothermal Energy Opportunity Act changes how lawsuits affect federal geothermal permitting. It amends the Geothermal Steam Act so a pending civil action does not by itself stop the federal government from processing applications tied to a valid existing geothermal lease. Once the applicant has completed requirements under federal laws and regulations, including NEPA, the Endangered Species Act, and historic-preservation law, the Secretary must approve and issue or deny the geothermal drilling permit, sundry notice, notice to proceed, right-of-way, or other authorization within 60 days. A federal court can still stop the project if it vacates the lease or grants injunctive relief.

Who Benefits and How

Geothermal leaseholders benefit because pending litigation no longer automatically delays agency decisions after legal prerequisites are complete. Geothermal developers receive a clearer 60-day decision clock for drilling permits, rights-of-way, and related authorizations. Geothermal project investors benefit from lower timing risk once the agency record is complete. Federal land agencies benefit from a clearer instruction to keep processing applications unless a federal court has actually blocked the lease or authorization.

Who Bears the Burden and How

Federal land management agencies must continue processing and decide covered geothermal applications within 60 days after requirements are complete. Environmental plaintiffs lose some delay leverage because a pending case alone does not stop processing; they must obtain vacatur or an injunction to halt the authorization. Communities challenging geothermal projects may face faster agency decisions while litigation is pending, although existing federal court authority remains intact.

Key Provisions

• Amends the Geothermal Steam Act to require continued processing of applications under valid existing geothermal leases despite pending civil actions.
• Requires approval, issuance, or denial within 60 days after all applicable federal legal and regulatory requirements are complete.
• Preserves federal court authority to vacate or enjoin geothermal leases, permits, rights-of-way, or other authorizations.
• Defines authorization broadly to include licenses, permits, approvals, findings, determinations, administrative decisions, and interagency consultations needed for geothermal projects.