What is NEPA?

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is the nation’s charter for protecting the environment. NEPA does not prescribe specific outcomes but requires federal decision makers to take a hard look at the potential effect(s) on the environment as a result of federal action. It also requires that the public and other stakeholders have the opportunity to comment on the federal agency’s effects analysis and consideration of reasonable alternatives. This includes discussion with federal and state agencies and consideration of all applicable federal and state laws. The Council on Environmental Quality has published the informational Citizen’s Guide to NEPA to assist the public and stakeholders in understanding the environmental review process and to participate effectively in providing comments.