What is the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)?

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is a law passed by the US Congress in 1970 that helps protect the environment in Washington and across the country. NEPA requires the federal government to consider the environmental impact of any major action taken by a government agency. This means that before any federal government action is taken, such as building a new dam or highway, the government must consider how the action will affect the environment. The law also requires public disclosure and engagement of projects that involve the federal government. The public must be notified of any proposed projects and given a chance to comment. This ensures that people impacted by the project are heard and their concerns are considered. NEPA also requires the federal government to prepare environmental impact statements (EIS) when they are proposing major projects or actions. These statements look at the potential impacts the project or action will have on the environment. Examples of potential impacts that may be analyzed in an EIS include air and water pollution, increased traffic in an area, the destruction of habitats, and more. If the potential impacts are too great, the government may decide not to take the action. Overall, NEPA is an important law that helps protect the environment in Washington and across the US. It ensures that the federal government considers potential environmental impacts when making decisions. It also provides transparency and public engagement on these decisions.

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What is the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)?

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