Economic Development and Revitalization Task Force

Federal Priorities

• Accelerating infrastructure project delivery and streamlining permitting, while establishing Governors’ priorities for the next surface transportation reauthorization;
• Advancing technology innovation and securing energy resilience to strengthen the country’s economy and national security;
• Working with Congress on the most impactful programs for states and territories contained in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), and the CHIPS and Science Act;
• Investing in state and territorial efforts to protect water resources and clean water.
• Ensuring Governors have a voice as Congress considers tax reform and international trade agreements.

State and Territorial Environmental Priorities for Economic Prosperity

NGA and the Environmental Council of the States held a Congressional briefing on March 24, 2025, to highlight the critical role of state and territorial governments in environmental protection and economic development—and the importance of a close partnership with the federal government. The briefing served to underscore Governors’ priorities for the 119th U.S. Congress, especially environmental issues, including clean water, permitting reform, and ensuring federal funding commitments. See a readout from the briefing.

Governors Call for Energy Permitting Reform

At the 2025 Winter Meeting Economic Development and Revitalization Task Force Co-Chairs Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster joined Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro for a discussion on streamlining the permitting process for vital infrastructure projects.