H.R. 1 Destruction, Part 3: Sections 60026 & 60017: Pay-to-Play Reviews, Species Left Behind

Fast-tracking destruction for the wealthy while defunding endangered species recovery. Section 60026 allows project sponsors (i.e., the developers themselves) to pay to accelerate their own environmental reviews. If they pay 125% of the estimated cost, they can:

• Have their Environmental Assessments completed in just 6 months.
• Push through Environmental Impact Statements in 12 months.
• In some cases, conduct the review themselves.

This undermines public trust, independent analysis, and the integrity of NEPA — our bedrock environmental law.

At the same time, Section 60017 rescinds funding for the Endangered Species Act recovery plans. So, if you’re a threatened species, funding is stripped. But if you’re a wealthy developer, you can pay for a shortcut.

Signed, Sealed, and Severed

H.R. 1 doesn’t just set a long-term framework that guarantees increased logging levels for almost a decade; it defunds species conservation and paves the way for a new era of unchecked development, all while calling it reform.

This isn’t just a bill. It’s a blueprint for erasing the public’s voice and fast-tracking industrial development. What’s on paper now will soon be on the ground, unless we stop it.

Our chance to speak up is narrowing; stay informed, get involved, and keep the pressure.

In signal and vigilance,
Bekah