The Leading Infrastructure for Tomorrow’s (LIFT) America Act was introduced by Democrats on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and there are several potential impacts to APGA members. Generally, this legislation authorizes billions of dollars in spending to improve energy infrastructure and increase energy efficiency.
Subtitle C. Energy Supply Infrastructure is the section that has the most significant effect on APGA members. It provides funding to support improvements of natural gas distribution systems in low income communities. Eligible projects include replacement of cast iron or inspection and maintenance programs. Monies are also set apart to create new grant programs for distributed energy systems in low income and underserved communities. The Office of Indian Energy Programs at the Department of Energy (DOE) would be authorized to provide additional assistance to ensure reliable, affordable power for Indian communities. Landfill gas is considered a renewable energy resource for the purposes of this legislation. Additionally, the LIFT America Act gives funding for natural gas vehicle (NGV) infrastructure through the Clean Cities programs. Also, of note, the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) would be reauthorized, which helps promote more use of NGVs. The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program would also be reauthorized, providing APGA members opportunities to apply and receive funding for natural gas energy efficiency projects.
Along with the introduction of the bill, the Energy and Commerce Committee had a hearing. Most of the discussion was on the rural broadband aspects of the LIFT America Act. The representative from the Global Energy Institute, a division of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, spoke about the challenges with pipeline permitting. He highlighted all the jobs that could come from rebuilding infrastructure, which is easier with permit streamlining. Christopher Guith also spoke about the Chamber’s support for reauthorizing the DERA that provides funding for NGV infrastructure. Congressman Walden (R-Ohio), who is the Ranking Member of the House Energy & Commerce Committee, highlighted the importance of permit streamlining as it relates to natural gas pipelines. He was supportive of helping to get more natural gas pipelines built, providing American energy to Americans. Congressman Upton (R-Mich.) is the Ranking Member of the Energy & Commerce Subcommittee with jurisdiction over the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). He took the opportunity during this hearing to mention ongoing pipeline safety legislation, specifically saying that pipelines are a type of infrastructure and the safest way to transport gas. Congressman Welch (D-Vt.) highlighted the rebates authorized in this bill for those investing to increase energy efficiency in buildings, including more use of natural gas.
Input on the LIFT America Act from APGA members is requested.
For questions on this article, please contact Stuart Saulters of APGA staff by phone at 202-464-2742 or by email at
ssaulters@apga.org.