H.R. 301 — GEO Act

This section requires the Secretary, notwithstanding any pending civil action, to approve or deny applications for geothermal drilling permits, sundry notices, notices to proceed, rights-of-way, or other authorizations under valid existing geothermal leases within 60 days after completing requirements under applicable federal laws (i.e., NEPA, ESA, and historic preservation laws), unless a federal court vacates or enjoins the lease or authorization. (Thus, the provision facilitates timely processing of geothermal development applications during litigation.) It further clarifies that the requirement does not alter federal courts' existing authority to vacate or enjoin such items and defines "authorization" to include any federal license, permit, approval, or interagency consultation required for siting, constructing, reconstructing, or commencing operations of a federally administered geothermal project.