H.R. 5631
The Geothermal Ombudsman for National Deployment and Optimal Reviews Act establishes a new position, the geothermal ombudsman, within the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). This ombudsman will help manage the permitting process for geothermal projects on federal land, acting as a mediator between BLM and project applicants. Additionally, a Geothermal Permitting Task Force will be created to support the ombudsman, allowing for the reassignment of employees from other offices to expedite the permitting process.