A Request for Information (RFI) seeking public input for a draft Integrated, Interagency Pre-application (IIP) Process was published in the Federal Register on August 29, 2013. The Federal Register Notice is available now for downloading. Comments must be received on or before September 30, 2013. As comments are received, they will be posted online.
The proposed IIP Process is intended to improve interagency and intergovernmental coordination focused on ensuring that project proponents develop and submit accurate and complete information early in the project planning process to facilitate efficient and timely environmental reviews and agency decisions.
On March 22, 2012, the President issued Executive Order 13604. “Improving Performance of Federal Permitting and Review of Infrastructure Projects” that directed all Federal agencies to “take all steps within their authority, consistent with available resources, to execute Federal permitting and review processes with maximum efficiency and effectiveness, ensuring the health, safety, and security of communities and the environment while supporting vital economic growth.” Following on that Order, the President issued a Memorandum on May 17, 2013 that discussed agency best practices identified as a result of Executive Order 13604. On June 7, 2013, the President issued another Memorandum, directing Federal agencies to “develop an integrated, interagency pre-application process for significant onshore electric transmission projects requiring Federal approval.” The draft IIP was developed in response to the President’s June 7, 2013 Memorandum.