Governor Brad Little and U.S. Department of Interior Secretary Doug Burgum have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Trump administration to streamline the permitting process for energy, mining, transportation, and other infrastructure projects in Idaho.
The agreement, made in coordination with the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council (Permitting Council), aims to better coordinate federal and state permitting. Idaho will participate in the “FAST-41” process, which aligns state and federal environmental review timelines. The goal is to prevent delays for critical infrastructure projects after federal reviews are completed.
Under the MOU, Idaho will identify priority infrastructure projects, improve transparency for state permitting actions, and synchronize review timelines at both levels of government. The Office of the Governor of Idaho supports policy initiatives like this one to advance state goals and serve communities across Idaho, as noted on its official website.
Governor Little stated: “Better aligning Idaho’s permitting timelines with the federal process reinforces Idaho’s reputation as one of the most business-friendly and investment-friendly states in the nation. Cutting red tape and eliminating duplicative delays mean critical infrastructure and energy projects can move forward faster with greater certainty and lower costs. Idaho is proud to work with the Trump administration and lead the way in creating an environment where investment is welcomed, innovation is supported, and American energy can thrive.”
Emily Domenech, Executive Director of the Permitting Council, added: “I am excited to launch this close partnership with Governor Little to streamline permitting and deliver critical infrastructure projects for the American people. By committing to align state and federal permitting timelines, Idaho will set a standard of permitting efficiency and transparency for states across the country, driving the investment and innovation essential for the President’s energy dominance agenda and our nation’s economic growth.”
Secretary Doug Burgum commented: “American Energy Dominance depends on a permitting system that is fast, efficient and empowers us to compete globally. Today’s signings synchronizing state and federal permitting timelines are a vital next step toward accelerating permitting processes and moving critical infrastructure projects through without unnecessary, burdensome delays. We look forward to welcoming many more states into this effort to unleash American energy potential and secure a more prosperous, energy-secure future for our nation.”
As part of this agreement, Idaho must add its own permitting actions alongside federal permits on the Federal Permitting Dashboard. This approach provides new levels of coordination between state agencies—such as those overseen by Governor Little—and their federal counterparts.
According to information from the official website, Governor Little has served as governor while promoting community engagement through public input. The office also aims to create an environment where future generations choose to remain in Idaho.
The Office of the Governor handles various services including scheduling requests from citizens or organizations seeking opinions or assistance from government agencies (source). These efforts support legislative sessions focused on advancing statewide objectives.
