01 — The Text
What.
- Requires Interior Department to hold geothermal lease sales yearly instead of every two years on federal land.
- Mandates all nominated parcels eligible for geothermal development be offered at each sale.
- Sets firm deadlines for Interior to respond to geothermal drilling permit applications.
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- Energy companies win faster access to develop geothermal resources on public lands; environmental groups may oppose reduced planning time.
- Western states with geothermal potential gain more frequent development opportunities and revenue from lease sales.
- Geothermal industry faces clearer timelines but less flexibility if sales are canceled—replacements must happen same year.
03 — The Path
Now what?
- House passed it June 2, 2026. Now in Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee after July 2026 hearings—no floor vote scheduled yet.
- Senate committee can advance it, amend it, or stall it. Call your senator if you want input.
- Track progress at Congress.gov using bill number H.R. 1687.
Legislative History
Actions.
- Jul 15, 2026 — Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests, and Mining. Hearings held.
- Jun 3, 2026 — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
- Jun 2, 2026 — Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
- Jun 2, 2026 — On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H3758-3759)
- Jun 2, 2026 — Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H3758-3759)
- Jun 2, 2026 — DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 1687.
- Jun 2, 2026 — Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H3758-3760)
- Jun 2, 2026 — Mr. Westerman moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.