15 States Challenge FERC’s Pipeline Fast Track

A 15-state coalition says FERC’s plan to ease approvals for larger gas pipeline projects could raise environmental and consumer risks.

27 Aug 2026

A coalition of 15 state attorneys general is challenging a federal proposal that could allow larger natural gas pipeline projects to proceed without case-by-case review. Led by Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown, the group filed formal comments on July 27, 2026, opposing changes proposed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

Under the rule unveiled May 21, FERC would more than double the automatic-authorization cost threshold, from $14.5 million to $30 million. The prior-notice threshold would climb from $41.1 million to $86 million, while certain compressor station expansions within existing fencelines would no longer face cost caps.

Much of the dispute comes down to how closely larger projects should be scrutinized under the Natural Gas Act. Connecticut Attorney General William Tong, who joined the coalition alongside California Attorney General Rob Bonta and others, argued that FERC must ensure new pipelines do not unfairly burden consumers, the air they breathe or the water they use. Communities along pipeline corridors can bear much of those environmental and health costs.

Energy companies could benefit from quicker approvals and less permitting uncertainty, potentially lowering capital costs. Opponents argue that fewer individualized reviews could weaken safeguards against stranded assets, higher costs for ratepayers and cumulative environmental damage.

Now the decision rests with FERC, which can finalize, revise or withdraw the proposal. Its response will help define how the agency balances faster infrastructure approvals with regulatory scrutiny as natural gas demand forecasts and decarbonization goals pull energy policy in competing directions.