42 C.F.R. § 137.287 — What is the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)?
§ 137.287 What is the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)? The NEPA is a procedural law that requires Federal agencies to follow established environmental review procedures, which include reviewing and documenting the environmental impact of their actions. NEPA establishes a comprehensive policy for protection and enhancement of the environment by the Federal Government; creates the Council on Environmental Quality in the Office of the President; and directs Federal agencies to carry out the policies and procedures of the Act. CEQ regulations (40 CFR 1500–1508) establish three levels of environmental review: categorical exclusions, environmental assessments, and environmental impact statements.