America’s rural communities are the backbone of our nation’s economy, embodying the values of hard work and self-reliance that define our country. These areas are home to the significant natural resources needed to strengthen our nation’s interests — in terms of economics, national security and competitiveness — but investments in rural areas too often do not come to fruition.

One of the largest root causes of this phenomenon can be attributed to our federal permitting system, a dated and bureaucratic approval process in desperate need of updating. While “permitting reform” may sound to some like a technical, “inside the Beltway” discussion, it could revitalize rural America, unlocking new potential and economic promise.

Read more in the Washington Times here.

The views and opinions expressed are those of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of C3.