A federal study on energy rights-of-way in Indian Country is being delayed, according to Indian Country Today.

A draft was due the first week of July, prompting a rash of tribal lobbying on Capitol Hill. The tribes hoped to ensure their point of view, not just the energy industry's, is represented.

The draft is now expected to be released in mid-July. A final report, as mandated by Section 1813 of the National Energy Policy Act, is due August 7.

The study was inserted into the legislation at the request of the energy industry, whose representatives claimed that tribes were asking for too much compensation for the use of their land. At first they sought a provision to allow the Interior Department to approve rights-of-way without tribal consent.

Get the Story:
Rights of way draft study is delayed (Indian Country Today 7/7)

Federal Register Notice:
Public Scoping Meeting on Congressionally Mandated Study of Energy Rights-of-Way on Tribal Lands (February 13, 2006)

Get the Bill:
Energy Policy Act of 2005 (H.R.6)

Relevant Links:
Council of Energy Resource Tribes - http://www.certredearth.com
Edison Electric Institute - http://www.eei.org
Department of Energy - http://www.energy.gov

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