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Simple English definitions for legal terms
National Environmental Policy Act
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A quick definition of National Environmental Policy Act:
National Environmental Policy Act: A law created in 1969 that sets the rules for how the United States government should think about the environment. The law says that before the government makes any new plans or laws that could hurt the environment, they have to write a report that explains how it might hurt the environment. This report is called an environmental-impact statement. The law is important because it helps make sure that the government thinks about the environment before making big decisions.
A more thorough explanation:
The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is a federal law passed in 1969 that establishes environmental policy in the United States. The law requires federal agencies to submit an environmental impact statement (EIS) for any proposed program or law that could affect the environment.
For example, if a federal agency wants to build a new highway, they must first prepare an EIS that analyzes the potential environmental impacts of the project. The EIS must consider factors such as air and water quality, wildlife habitats, and the effects on nearby communities.
NEPA is an important law because it ensures that federal agencies consider the environmental consequences of their actions before making decisions. This helps to protect the environment and promote sustainable development.
National Endowment for the Humanities | National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service