CONGRESS FOR VOTERS

DemocratBill · S. 456· Senate(119-S-456)

Streamlining Thermal Energy through Advanced Mechanisms Act

A bill to amend the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to expedite geothermal exploration and development in previously studied or developed areas.

Rep. Cortez Masto
Age: 62 years
Nevada
Introduced
2/6/2025
Last activity
9/16/2026 — Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Hearings held.
Sponsored by
Catherine Cortez Masto
Cosponsors
Democrat - 0Republican - 3
Energy
  1. Introduced
  2. In Committee

What this bill would do

This bill, known as the STEAM Act, aims to amend the Energy Policy Act of 2005. The primary goal is to expedite the exploration and development of geothermal resources in areas that have been previously studied or developed. It specifically targets updates to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review processes. The amendments involve adding geothermal resources alongside gas in specific subsections of the existing law.

Yes· 3 of 10

  • Does this put more money into wind, solar and other renewable power?+5

    The act facilitates the development of geothermal energy as a renewable resource.

  • Does this cut the pollution that drives climate change?+4

    Promoting geothermal energy facilitates a shift toward renewable, lower-carbon energy sources.

  • Would business owners be better off under this?+4

    Energy companies benefit from faster development timelines.

The opposite· 3 of 5

  • Does this better protect air, water and wildlife?-2

    Expediting NEPA reviews may reduce the depth of environmental oversight for geothermal projects.

  • Would Native Americans be better off under this?-2

    Expedited resource development can impact tribal lands and traditional resource management.

  • Does this better protect public land such as parks and forests?-1

    Streamlining processes might alter the traditional management of public lands for energy.