License to Drill Act
To amend the Mineral Leasing Act to extend the period of time during which the Secretary of the Interior is required to collect a fee for each new application for a permit to drill, and for other purposes.
HB7831, also known as the "License to Drill Act," proposes to change the Mineral Leasing Act. Specifically, it seeks to extend the time period during which the Secretary of the Interior must collect a fee for each new application for a drilling permit. This bill was introduced on March 5, 2026, and has passed through several stages in the legislative process. The bill has been reviewed by various committees and subcommittees, including the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources and the Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests, and Mining.
This legislation would affect companies and individuals who apply for permits to drill on federal lands. By extending the period to collect fees, the bill aims to streamline the permitting process and potentially reduce administrative costs. The bill has been actively considered and debated in both the House and Senate, with the most recent action being a favorable report from the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources on July 29, 2026.
As of June 3, 2026, the bill has been read twice in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. In the House, it has been passed by a voice vote and is now under consideration in the Senate. The legislative journey of HB7831 highlights ongoing efforts to balance regulatory oversight with industry needs.
