Q. What is the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and what does it do?

A. NEPA is a federal statute passed by Congress in 1969. It sets forth one of the most comprehensive environmental policies of our nation, and it requires federal government agencies to consider the potential environmental impacts of major federal actions by preparing Environmental Impact Statements (“EISs”). EISs include descriptions of the affected environment, possible alternatives to proposed actions, and mitigating measures to reduce impacts on the environment. NEPA also provides opportunity for public involvement in the EIS process through written comments and participation in adjudicatory proceedings.

Q. What are “little NEPAs”?

A. “Little NEPAs,” or State Environmental Quality Acts (SEQAs), are environmental policy acts enacted by state legislatures rather than by the United States Congress. These acts generally mirror the federal act and contain similar provisions – that is, they require state and sometimes local governments to prepare statements assessing the potential environmental impacts of their actions.

Q. Why do states need SEQAs if we already have the federal NEPA?

A. The federal NEPA only affects the proposed actions of the federal government; it does not affect the actions of state, county, or municipal governments. Environmental quality acts are needed in each state to ensure that state and local governmental entities consider the environmental impacts of their projects and decisions.

Q. Won’t implementation of a SEQA slow development and add to the costs of state-funded projects?

A. The requirements of SEQAs may add to the initial costs of proposed projects and slow the approval procedures. However, these requirements pay off in the long run. Often, the evaluation required by SEQAs produces a better and cheaper project. In addition, involving affected stakeholders in the decision can minimize controversy and avoid litigation. This type of legislation saves taxpayers money in the long run.

Q. How many states currently have SEQAs?

A. To date, sixteen states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico have enacted SEQAs. The sixteen states are Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, New York, North Carolina, South Dakota, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. (See SERC’s “State Environmental Quality Acts” State Activity page for a list of current SEQAs and their citations.)

Q. If my state does not have a SEQA, what can I do to help get one enacted?

A. One way to get involved is to contact your state legislator, share the information contained in these web pages, and encourage her or him to sponsor a bill. You may also determine if any local environmental groups are working on this issue, and volunteer your time and efforts to help get a SEQA bill introduced in the state legislature.