Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee, Natural Resources Committee
Introduced
In Committee
On Floor
Passed Chamber
Enacted
This bill, known as the Geothermal Energy Opportunity Act, aims to accelerate the development of geothermal resources by establishing a firm deadline for processing related applications. It amends the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 to mandate that the Secretary of the Interior act on various geothermal authorizations. Specifically, the bill requires the Secretary to approve, issue, or deny applications for geothermal drilling permits, sundry notices, rights-of-way, and other authorizations within 60 days . This 60-day clock begins after all requirements under applicable federal laws and regulations, such as the National Environmental Policy Act and the Endangered Species Act, have been fulfilled. A key provision states that this processing requirement applies even in the presence of pending civil actions affecting an application. However, the deadline is waived if a United States Federal court vacates or provides injunctive relief for the specific geothermal lease or authorization. The bill clarifies that it does not grant any new judicial authority to federal courts in this regard.
Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
Referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources.
Subcommittee Hearings Held
Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
Ordered to be Reported by Unanimous Consent.
Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources Discharged
Energy
Alternative and renewable resourcesElectric power generation and transmissionLicensing and registrationsMiningPerformance measurement
GEO Act
USA119th CongressHR-301| House
| Updated: 3/5/2026
This bill, known as the Geothermal Energy Opportunity Act, aims to accelerate the development of geothermal resources by establishing a firm deadline for processing related applications. It amends the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 to mandate that the Secretary of the Interior act on various geothermal authorizations. Specifically, the bill requires the Secretary to approve, issue, or deny applications for geothermal drilling permits, sundry notices, rights-of-way, and other authorizations within 60 days . This 60-day clock begins after all requirements under applicable federal laws and regulations, such as the National Environmental Policy Act and the Endangered Species Act, have been fulfilled. A key provision states that this processing requirement applies even in the presence of pending civil actions affecting an application. However, the deadline is waived if a United States Federal court vacates or provides injunctive relief for the specific geothermal lease or authorization. The bill clarifies that it does not grant any new judicial authority to federal courts in this regard.