S. 4772, Preemption of Local Land-Use Authority. Quorum's AI analysis reads it as a net cost — and names who bears it.
S. 4772 · Net cost
What it does
This bill prevents states and local governments from restricting renewable energy projects (wind, solar, geothermal, energy storage) by banning specific regulatory tools—such as height limits under 525 feet, setback requirements over 1,000 feet, sound limits below 50 decibels, or permitting fees that differ from other energy projects. It overrides state and local zoning, environmental, and land-use authority to protect renewable energy development in interstate commerce.
The analysis names renewable energy developers — and 3 more groups — among the beneficiaries.
The cost
Eliminates local environmental review and cumulative-impact assessment for renewable projects, potentially allowing rapid development in sensitive ecosystems or near residential areas without community input.
The analysis put a high warning level on this bill. Transparency scores 75%, and the analysis found no provisions unrelated to the bill's subject.
Who is behind it
Filed by Jeff Merkley.