Schatz Statement On Bipartisan American Affordability And Jobs Act

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) released the following statement on the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act of 2026. “The Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act is a historic bill that reflects years of bipartisan work to reform our outdated permitting processes while protecting the environment. “Permitting delays drive up costs and stall projects, making electricity, housing, and public transportation more expensive. This legislation will help lower costs, build clean energy, modernize America’s grid, cut emissions, and hold data center developers accountable. “This bill is a bipartisan compromise, and deals like this are tough. We heard from Native leaders and advocates and secured some key changes to improve the historic preservation title and ensure that federal agencies consult with Native Hawaiian organizations, Tribes, and others about historic and cultural resources. I understand these changes won’t be enough for everyone to support the bill, but we’ll continue working to ensure Native Hawaiian organizations and Tribes have a meaningful voice in decisions affecting their communities. “While BAAJA is not perfect, it represents a rare opportunity to pass strong, bipartisan legislation that will help lower costs and make it easier for American workers to build the things our country needs. I will vote to pass it and will continue working with my colleagues to deliver results for people in Hawai?i and across the country.” ###