An internal conflict within the House Republican party over a critical bill designed to expedite the federal permitting process for energy projects is threatening to bring legislative proceedings to a standstill as the holiday recess approaches. The bill in question, known as the SPEED Act, aims to streamline energy project approvals but has hit a snag due to disagreements over offshore wind developments.

Representatives Andy Harris (R-Md.) and Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.) have expressed strong opposition to the procedural measure that would initiate debate on the bipartisan act. Their main concern lies with provisions in the bill that would make it more challenging for future presidents to revoke energy permits, a move they believe could hamper efforts led by former President Donald Trump to limit offshore wind projects.

Despite these objections, GOP leaders are pushing forward with the rule vote, closely monitoring a small group of Republican holdouts. According to sources familiar with the matter, Speaker Mike Johnson's team is aware that the success of this procedural vote may hinge on member attendance and last-minute persuasions.

The Republican majority, which is slim, cannot afford significant defections. This is particularly true as the minority party typically does not align with the majority on rule votes. "We’ll see — it always depends on attendance," commented Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.), Chair of the Natural Resources Committee and the architect behind the SPEED Act. He remains optimistic about the bill's prospects, emphasizing its importance for national interest.

Majority Leader Steve Scalise has been actively engaging with dissenting members, reassuring them that this vote is merely the initial step in a larger effort to reform permitting processes as negotiations continue with Senate leaders.

In a concession to those opposing the bill, the House Rules Committee agreed to allow votes on amendments demanded by hard-liners, including one that seeks to remove the contentious language on offshore wind from the bill. Westerman has stated he would oppose this amendment if it comes to the floor.

As the House gears up for the rule vote, the outcome remains uncertain, with the potential to either advance a significant legislative priority or stall it amidst partisan and intra-party divides. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the SPEED Act can overcome these hurdles and move forward in the legislative process.