Electric cooperatives across the country, including JCE Co-op, are calling on federal lawmakers to modernize permitting processes and improve FEMA disaster recovery programs—two critical issues that directly impact the reliability and affordability of electric service in rural communities.

As not-for-profit, member-owned utilities, electric co-ops are responsible for building and maintaining essential infrastructure such as power lines, substations, and generation resources. However, outdated and unpredictable federal permitting processes can delay these projects for years. Lengthy reviews and legal challenges not only slow progress but also increase costs, making it more difficult for co-ops to efficiently deliver system upgrades that strengthen reliability.

In addition, when severe weather and natural disasters damage electric systems, co-ops rely on FEMA assistance to support recovery efforts. While this aid is vital, the current process can present significant challenges. Delayed reimbursements, high borrowing costs, funding uncertainties, and policies that do not always reflect the realities of rural systems can place financial strain on cooperatives.

Because co-ops operate on a cost-of-service basis, these delays and added expenses ultimately affect the members they serve. Every dollar spent navigating unnecessary bureaucracy is a dollar that could otherwise be invested in system improvements or kept in members’ pockets.

By advocating for practical reforms to federal permitting and FEMA processes, JCE Co-op and electric cooperatives nationwide are working to ensure faster project timelines, more efficient disaster recovery, and stronger grid resilience. These changes are essential to maintaining reliable, affordable power for rural America now and into the future.