National Environmental Policy Act

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), enacted in 1969, requires federal agencies to evaluate the environmental impacts of their proposed actions before making decisions. It mandates the preparation of Environmental Assessments (EAs) and Environmental Impact Statements (EISs) to assess potential effects on the environment, promoting informed decision-making. NEPA encourages public participation by allowing citizens to comment on proposed projects, fostering transparency and accountability in federal actions. Ultimately, NEPA aims to ensure that environmental factors are considered alongside economic and technical factors, helping to protect and preserve natural resources for future generations.