National Environmental Policy Act Implementation (CEQ Regulations)
Plain English Summary
Requires federal agencies to assess environmental impacts before undertaking major projects or decisions.
Full Text
Federal agencies must assess the environmental effects of their proposed actions prior to making decisions. Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) are required for major federal actions significantly affecting the quality of the human environment. Environmental Assessments (EA) are prepared when the significance of effects is uncertain.
The process includes scoping, public comment, consideration of alternatives, and a record of decision. Agencies must consider the cumulative impacts of their actions and reasonable alternatives, including no action. Categorical exclusions may apply to actions that normally do not have significant environmental effects.