What is the National Environmental Quality Act (NEQA)?

The National Environmental Quality Act (NEQA) is a federal law that protects the environment by requiring detailed review of all federal activity that may have an impact on the environment. It was passed by the U.S. Congress in 1970 and was later amended in 1977. The purpose of NEQA is to ensure that all agencies of the federal government consider environmental impacts when making decisions about actions. In California, NEQA requires the California Environmental Protection Agency and other state agencies to review federal activities that could potentially impact the environment. Before any such activity is approved, the agency must conduct a thorough environmental assessment to assess any potential impacts to the environment. If the agency finds that the activity will have a significant environmental impact, then a more detailed environmental impact statement must be completed. The environmental impact statement must include a statement of environmental goals, a description of potential environmental impacts, and an analysis of how the proposed activity will help to achieve those goals. It is also required to identify measures to mitigate or prevent any negative impacts to the environment that could occur. NEQA is essential in ensuring that the environment is protected in California. It is a central part of California’s system of environmental regulations and it is a powerful tool for ensuring that the environment is respected in the development of any federal activity.

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What is the National Environmental Quality Act (NEQA)?

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