Council on Environmental Quality – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

Environmental Justice Scorecard
Document Number: 2024-01270
Type: Notice
Date: 2024-01-23
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
On November 20, 2023, the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) published a request for information (RFI) to solicit feedback on Phase One of the Environmental Justice Scorecard, which will inform future versions of the Environmental Justice Scorecard. This notice extends the deadline for receiving responses to this RFI by an additional 30 days, until February 22, 2024.
Environmental Justice Scorecard
Document Number: 2023-25508
Type: Notice
Date: 2023-11-20
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is issuing this request for information (RFI) to solicit feedback on Phase One of the Environmental Justice Scorecard, which will inform future versions of the Environmental Justice Scorecard.
National Environmental Policy Act Implementing Regulations Revisions Phase 2
Document Number: 2023-15405
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2023-07-31
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is proposing this ``Bipartisan Permitting Reform Implementation Rule'' to revise its regulations for implementing the procedural provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), including to implement the Fiscal Responsibility Act's amendments to NEPA. CEQ proposes the revisions to provide for an effective environmental review process that promotes better decision making; ensure full and fair public involvement; provide for an efficient process and regulatory certainty; and provide for sound decision making grounded in science, including consideration of relevant environmental, climate change, and environmental justice effects. CEQ proposes these changes to better align the provisions with CEQ's extensive experience implementing NEPA; CEQ's perspective on how NEPA can best inform agency decision making; longstanding Federal agency experience and practice; NEPA's statutory text and purpose, including making decisions informed by science; and case law interpreting NEPA's requirements. CEQ invites comments on the proposed revisions.
Ocean Justice Strategy
Document Number: 2023-12271
Type: Notice
Date: 2023-06-08
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) and Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), on behalf of the Ocean Policy Committee (OPC), request input from all interested parties to inform the development of an Ocean Justice Strategy. The Ocean Justice Strategy will describe the vision, goals, and high-level objectives for coordinating and guiding ocean justice activities across the Federal Government. It may also serve as a reference for Tribal, Territorial, State, and local governments, regional management bodies, and non- governmental groups. The Ocean Justice Strategy will propose equitable and just practices to advance safety, health, and prosperity for communities residing near the ocean, the coasts, and the Great Lakes and for the whole country, now and for future generations. It builds on current Biden-Harris Administration activities and commitments aimed to advance environmental justice. Through this Request for Information (RFI), the Ocean Policy Committee seeks public input on what the vision and goals of the Ocean Justice Strategy should be and how the Federal Government can advance just and equitable access to, and management and use of, the ocean, the coasts, and the Great Lakes.
Columbia River Salmon and Other Native Fish Request for Information
Document Number: 2023-09525
Type: Notice
Date: 2023-05-04
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is issuing this request for information (RFI) to solicit feedback on Columbia River salmon and other native fish restoration and other relevant information to an ongoing mediation.
National Environmental Policy Act Guidance on Consideration of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Climate Change
Document Number: 2023-03257
Type: Notice
Date: 2023-02-16
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
On January 9, 2023, the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) issued guidance to assist agencies in analyzing greenhouse gas and climate change effects of their proposed actions under the National Environmental Policy Act and requested public comment on the guidance. This notice extends the deadline date for receiving public comments for an additional 30 days, until April 10, 2023.
National Environmental Policy Act Guidance on Consideration of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Climate Change
Document Number: 2023-00158
Type: Notice
Date: 2023-01-09
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is issuing this interim guidance to assist agencies in analyzing greenhouse gas (GHG) and climate change effects of their proposed actions under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). CEQ is issuing this guidance as interim guidance so that agencies may make use of it immediately while CEQ seeks public comment on the guidance. CEQ intends to either revise the guidance in response to public comments or finalize the interim guidance.
Carbon Dioxide Capture, Utilization and Sequestration (CCUS) Non-Federal Lands Permitting Task Force
Document Number: 2022-28156
Type: Notice
Date: 2022-12-28
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
As required by the Utilizing Significant Emissions with Innovative Technologies (USE IT) Act, the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is seeking additional member nominations from a diverse range of qualified candidates to serve on the ``Carbon Dioxide Capture, Utilization and Sequestration (CCUS) Non-Federal Lands Permitting Task Force'' (Non-Federal Task Force). Vacancies are anticipated to be filled by February 17, 2023.
Carbon Dioxide Capture, Utilization and Sequestration (CCUS) Federal Lands and Outer Continental Shelf Permitting Task Force
Document Number: 2022-28157
Type: Notice
Date: 2022-12-28
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
As required by the Utilizing Significant Emissions with Innovative Technologies (USE IT) Act, the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is seeking additional member nominations from a diverse range of qualified candidates to serve on the ``Carbon Dioxide Capture, Utilization and Sequestration (CCUS) Federal Lands and Outer Continental Shelf Permitting Task Force'' (Federal and OCS Task Force). Vacancies are anticipated to be filled by February 17, 2023.
Environmental Justice Scorecard Feedback
Document Number: 2022-21650
Type: Notice
Date: 2022-10-04
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
On August 3, 2022, the Council on Environmental Quality published a request for information (RFI) to solicit feedback on the vision, framework, and outcomes of the Environmental Justice Scorecard. This notice extends the deadline date for receiving comments until November 3, 2022.
Environmental Justice Scorecard Feedback
Document Number: 2022-16635
Type: Notice
Date: 2022-08-03
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality is issuing this request for information (RFI) to solicit feedback on the vision, framework, and outcomes of the Environmental Justice Scorecard.
Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Sequestration Guidance
Document Number: 2022-05569
Type: Notice
Date: 2022-03-16
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
On February 16, 2022, the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) published a notice announcing the availability of and seeking comment on an interim guidance document, ``Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Sequestration Guidance.'' CEQ is extending the comment period on the notice, which was scheduled to close on March 18, 2022, for 31 days until April 18, 2022.
Generic Clearance for the Collection of Qualitative Feedback on Agency Service Delivery
Document Number: 2022-05567
Type: Notice
Date: 2022-03-16
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA), the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is planning to submit an information collection request (ICR), Generic Clearance for the Collection of Qualitative Feedback on Agency Service Delivery to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval. Before doing so, CEQ is soliciting public comments on specific aspects of the proposed information collection as described below. The PRA requires Federal agencies to publish a notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of a currently approved collection, and to allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. An agency may not conduct or sponsor and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number.
Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool Beta Version
Document Number: 2022-03920
Type: Notice
Date: 2022-02-23
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality is issuing this request for information (RFI) to solicit feedback on the beta version of the Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool.
National Environmental Policy Act Implementing Regulations Revisions
Document Number: 2021-21867
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2021-10-07
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is proposing to modify certain aspects of its regulations for implementing the procedural provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to generally restore regulatory provisions that were in effect for decades before being modified in 2020. CEQ proposes these changes in order to better align the provisions with CEQ's extensive experience implementing NEPA, in particular its perspective on how NEPA can best inform agency decision making, as well as longstanding Federal agency experience and practice, NEPA's statutory text and purpose, including making decisions informed by science, and case law interpreting NEPA's requirements. The proposed rule would restore provisions addressing the purpose and need of a proposed action, agency NEPA procedures for implementing CEQ's NEPA regulations, and the definition of ``effects.'' CEQ invites comments on the proposed revisions.
Deadline for Agencies To Propose Updates to National Environmental Policy Act Procedures
Document Number: 2021-13770
Type: Rule
Date: 2021-06-29
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is extending the deadline by two years for Federal agencies to develop or revise proposed procedures for implementing the procedural provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
Guidance Document Procedures Rescission
Document Number: 2021-07398
Type: Rule
Date: 2021-04-13
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
On January 8, 2021, the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) issued a final rule to implement Executive Order (E.O.) 13891, ``Promoting the Rule of Law Through Improved Agency Guidance Documents.'' In accordance with E.O. 13992, ``Revocation of Certain Executive Orders Concerning Federal Regulation,'' this final rule rescinds CEQ's rule on guidance document procedures.
National Environmental Policy Act Guidance on Consideration of Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Document Number: 2021-03355
Type: Notice
Date: 2021-02-19
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is rescinding its ``Draft National Environmental Policy Act Guidance on Consideration of Greenhouse Gas Emissions'' consistent with Executive Order (E.O.) 13990, ``Protecting Public Health and the Environment and Restoring Science to Tackle the Climate Crisis.''
Guidance Document Procedures
Document Number: 2020-28881
Type: Rule
Date: 2021-01-08
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
Pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13891, ``Promoting the Rule of Law Through Improved Agency Guidance Documents,'' this final rule establishes the process that the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) will follow for issuing guidance documents. E.O. 13891 requires Federal agencies to finalize regulations or amend existing regulations to establish processes and procedures for issuing guidance documents.
Guidance Document Online Portal
Document Number: 2020-28879
Type: Notice
Date: 2021-01-08
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
In accordance with Executive Order (E.O.) 13891, ``Promoting the Rule of Law Through Improved Agency Guidance Documents,'' dated October 9, 2019, and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Memorandum M-20-02, dated October 31, 2019, the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is providing notice of where the public may access CEQ guidance documents.
Guiding Principles for Sustainable Federal Buildings and Associated Instructions
Document Number: 2020-28928
Type: Notice
Date: 2020-12-31
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
Consistent with Executive Order, ``Efficient Federal Operations,'' and the ``Implementing Instructions for Executive Order 13834 Efficient Federal Operations,'' the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) has issued updated guidance to Federal agencies titled, ``Guiding Principles for Sustainable Federal Buildings and Associated Instructions'' (Guidance).
Emergencies and the National Environmental Policy Act Guidance
Document Number: 2020-21044
Type: Notice
Date: 2020-09-24
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
On September 14, 2020, the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) issued guidance, CEQ-NEPA-2020-01, in a memorandum to the heads of Federal departments and agencies (agencies) to assist agencies with compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) during emergencies. The CEQ regulations implementing NEPA provide for alternative arrangements during emergencies when an agency's action is likely to have significant effects and would require preparation of an environmental impact statement. This guidance also addresses compliance with NEPA when the action is unlikely to have significant effects and might require preparation of an environmental assessment or application of a categorical exclusion.
Update to the Regulations Implementing the Procedural Provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act
Document Number: 2020-15179
Type: Rule
Date: 2020-07-16
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) issues this final rule to update its regulations for Federal agencies to implement the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). CEQ has not comprehensively updated its regulations since their promulgation in 1978, more than four decades ago. This final rule comprehensively updates, modernizes, and clarifies the regulations to facilitate more efficient, effective, and timely NEPA reviews by Federal agencies in connection with proposals for agency action. The rule will improve interagency coordination in the environmental review process, promote earlier public involvement, increase transparency, and enhance the participation of States, Tribes, and localities. The amendments will advance the original goals of the CEQ regulations to reduce paperwork and delays, and promote better decisions consistent with the national environmental policy set forth in section 101 of NEPA.
Update to the Regulations Implementing the Procedural Provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act
Document Number: 2019-28106
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2020-01-10
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
In this action, the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is proposing to update its regulations for implementing the procedural provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). CEQ has not comprehensively updated its regulations since their promulgation in 1978, more than four decades ago. This proposed rule would modernize and clarify the regulations to facilitate more efficient, effective, and timely NEPA reviews by Federal agencies in connection with proposals for agency action. The proposed amendments would advance the original goals of the CEQ regulations to reduce paperwork and delays, and promote better decisions consistent with the national environmental policy set forth in section 101 of NEPA. If finalized, the proposed rule would comprehensively update and substantially revise the 1978 regulations. CEQ invites comments on the proposed revisions.
Draft National Environmental Policy Act Guidance on Consideration of Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Document Number: 2019-15697
Type: Notice
Date: 2019-07-24
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
On June 26, 2019, the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) published draft guidance on how National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) analysis and documentation should address greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The CEQ is extending the comment period on the draft guidance, which was scheduled to close on July 26, 2019, for 31 days until August 26, 2019. The CEQ is making this change in response to public requests for an extension of the comment period.
Draft National Environmental Policy Act Guidance on Consideration of Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Document Number: 2019-13576
Type: Notice
Date: 2019-06-26
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is publishing draft guidance on how National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) analysis and documentation should address greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This Draft National Environmental Policy Act Guidance on Consideration of Greenhouse Gas Emissions, if finalized, would replace the final guidance CEQ issued on August 1, 2016, titled ``Final Guidance for Federal Departments and Agencies on Consideration of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and the Effects of Climate Change in National Environmental Policy Act Reviews,'' which was withdrawn effective April 5, 2017 for further consideration pursuant to Executive Order 13783 of March 28, 2017, ``Promoting Energy Independence and Economic Growth.''
Instructions for Implementing Efficient Federal Operations Executive Order (E.O.) 13834
Document Number: 2019-09126
Type: Notice
Date: 2019-05-03
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Chairman of the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) has issued instructions to Federal agencies for meeting energy and environmental performance requirements in a manner that increases efficiency, optimizes performance, eliminates unnecessary use of resources, and protects the environment, as required under Executive Order (E.O.) 13834, ``Efficient Federal Operations,'' signed by President Trump on May 17, 2018. The purpose of the Executive Order is to direct agencies on the management of Federal facilities, vehicles, and operations to achieve statutory requirements, while prioritizing actions to reduce waste, cut costs, and enhance resilience of Federal infrastructure and operations for effective accomplishment of agency missions.
Update to the Regulations for Implementing the Procedural Provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act
Document Number: 2018-14821
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2018-07-11
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
On June 20, 2018, the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) published an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) titled ``Update to the Regulations for Implementing the Procedural Provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act.'' The CEQ is extending the comment period on the ANPRM, which was scheduled to close on July 20, 2018, for 31 days until August 20, 2018. The CEQ is making this change in response to public requests for an extension of the comment period.
Update to the Regulations for Implementing the Procedural Provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act
Document Number: 2018-13246
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2018-06-20
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is considering updating its implementing regulations for the procedural provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Over the past four decades, CEQ has issued numerous guidance documents but has amended its regulations substantively only once. Given the length of time since its NEPA implementing regulations were issued, CEQ solicits public comment on potential revisions to update the regulations and ensure a more efficient, timely, and effective NEPA process consistent with the national environmental policy stated in NEPA.
Initial List of Actions To Enhance and Modernize the Federal Environmental Review and Authorization Process
Document Number: 2017-19425
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-09-14
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is publishing its initial list of actions pursuant to Executive Order 13807 of August 15, 2017, titled ``Establishing Discipline and Accountability in the Environmental Review and Permitting Process for Infrastructure Projects,'' and published on August 24, 2017.
Withdrawal of Final Guidance for Federal Departments and Agencies on Consideration of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and the Effects of Climate Change in National Environmental Policy Act Reviews
Document Number: 2017-06770
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-04-05
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is withdrawing its ``Final Guidance for Federal Departments and Agencies on Consideration of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and the Effects of Climate Change in National Environmental Policy Act Reviews,'' for which a Notice of Availability was published on August 5, 2016. 81 FR 51866.
Office of Federal Sustainability Employee Charging Guidance
Document Number: 2016-25270
Type: Notice
Date: 2016-10-19
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Office of Federal Sustainability Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) has issued to Federal agency Chief Sustainability Officers Guidance for Federal Agency Implementation of Workplace Charging Pursuant to the Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act: Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment. The guidance outlines how Federal agencies can take advantage of workplace charging opportunities under the FAST Act, and provides an approach for a uniform fee for the use of existing and new hard-wired electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) with cordsets including alternating current (AC) Level 1 EVSE, AC Level 2 EVSE, or direct current fast chargers (DCFC), for the purposes of seeking reimbursement under the FAST Act. The document also describes how Federal agency Chief Sustainability Officers should coordinate with Federal agency fleet managers to report annually on the implementation of workplace charging in the Federal Automotive Statistical Tool (FAST).
Final Guidance for Federal Departments and Agencies on Consideration of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and the Effects of Climate Change in National Environmental Policy Act Reviews
Document Number: 2016-18620
Type: Notice
Date: 2016-08-05
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is issuing its final guidance on considering greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and climate change in National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) reviews. Many projects and programs proposed by, or requiring the approval of, Federal agencies have the potential to emit or sequester GHGs and may be affected by climate change. It follows that, under NEPA, Federal decision-makers and the public should be informed about a proposal's GHG emissions and climate change implications. Such information can help a decision-maker make an informed choice between alternative actions that will result in different levels of GHG emissions or consider mitigation measures that reduce climate change impacts. This final guidance applies to all types of proposed Federal agency actions, including land and resource management actions, and provides agencies with a framework for agency consideration of the effects of GHGs and climate change to ensure efficient and transparent agency decision- making.
Office of Federal Sustainability Employee Charging Guidance
Document Number: 2016-14144
Type: Notice
Date: 2016-06-15
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Office of Federal Sustainability Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) has issued to Federal agency Chief Sustainability Officers Guidance for Federal Agency Implementation of Workplace Charging Pursuant to the Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act: Level 1 Charging Receptacles. The guidance outlines how Federal agencies can take advantage of workplace charging opportunities under the FAST Act, and provides an approach for a uniform fee for Level 1 charging receptacles (i.e. wall outlets) for the purposes of seeking reimbursement under the FAST Act. The document also describes how Federal agency Chief Sustainability Officers should coordinate with Federal agency fleet managers to report annually on the implementation of workplace charging in the Federal Automotive Statistical Tool (FAST).
Guiding Principles for Sustainable Federal Buildings
Document Number: 2016-04563
Type: Notice
Date: 2016-03-02
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) has issued updated guidance to Federal agencies outlining the key principles and primary requirements for the design, construction, modernization, and operation of new and existing sustainable Federal buildings, as required under Executive Order 13693 (``E.O. 13693''), ``Planning for Federal Sustainability in the Next Decade,'' signed by President Obama on March 19, 2015, 80 FR 15871, March 25, 2015. Section 4(f) of E.O. 13693 calls for ``revised Guiding Principles for both new and existing Federal buildings . . .'' to support Federal efforts to improve the environmental performance, climate resilience, and occupant health and wellness as well as increase the operating efficiency of Federal buildings.
Opportunity for Sponsorship of the GreenGov Symposium
Document Number: 2016-01132
Type: Notice
Date: 2016-01-21
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
This notice informs the public of the opportunity for eligible non-governmental entities to submit an application for co-sponsorship of a potential White House Council on Environmental Quality 2016 GreenGov Symposium. Those interested in becoming co-sponsors should submit an application for co-sponsorship by February 12, 2016.
Implementing Instructions for Planning for Federal Sustainability in the Next Decade Executive Order (E.O.) 13693
Document Number: 2015-14501
Type: Notice
Date: 2015-06-15
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Managing Director of the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) has issued instructions to Federal agencies for incorporating sustainability practices into agency policies and practices, as required under Executive Order 13693 (``E.O. 13693''), ``Planning for Federal Sustainability in the Next Decade,'' signed by President Obama on March 19, 2015, 80 FR 15871, March 25, 2015. The purpose of the Executive Order is to build a clean energy economy that will sustain our prosperity and the health of our people through Federal leadership in energy, water, fleet, buildings, and acquisition management to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 40 percent over the next decade. Section 1 of E.O. 13693 directs agencies to ``increase efficiency and improve their environmental performance . . . [to] help us protect our planet for future generations and save taxpayer dollars through avoided energy costs and increased efficiency, while also making federal facilities more resilient.'' Section 4 of E.O. 13693 directs the Chair of CEQ to issue implementing instructions. The Instructions for Implementing Planning for Federal Sustainability in the Next Decade are now available at: https://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/ default/files/docs/eo_13693_implementing_instructions_june_10 _2015.pdf.
Notice To Extend the Comment Period for the Revised Draft Guidance for Federal Departments and Agencies on Consideration of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and the Effects of Climate Change in NEPA Reviews
Document Number: 2015-03606
Type: Notice
Date: 2015-02-23
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
This notice extends the comment period for the proposed guidance published in the Federal Register on December 24, 2014, (79 FR 77802, Dec. 24, 2014). The comment period for the proposed guidance, which would have ended on February 23, 2015, is extended for 30 days.
Economic and Environmental Principles and Guidelines for Water and Related Land Resources Implementation Studies; Final Interagency Guidelines
Document Number: 2014-30170
Type: Notice
Date: 2014-12-24
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
Section 2031 of the Water Resources Development Act of 2007 (Water Resources Development Act), Public Law 110-114, directed the Secretary of the Army to revise the ``Economic and Environmental Principles and Guidelines for Water and Related Land Resources Implementation Studies'' (Principles and Guidelines), dated March 10, 1983, consistent with several considerations enumerated in the Water Resources Development Act. The revised Principles and Guidelines, now referenced as the Principles, Requirements and Guidelines (PR&G), consist of three key components: (1) The Principles and Requirements (formerly called Principles and Standards), setting out broad policy and principles that guide investments; (2) the Interagency Guidelines, providing guidance to Federal agencies for determining the applicability of the Principles and Guidelines and for developing agency specific implementing procedures for formulating, evaluating, and comparing water resources projects, programs, activities and related actions; and (3) the Agency Specific Procedures, outlining agency-specific procedures for incorporating the Principles and Requirements into agency missions and programs. This notice informs the public that the Interagency Guidelines, the second key component of the modernized PR&G, are finalized and available at www.whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/ceq/initiatives/ PandG. The draft Interagency Guidelines were published in the Federal Register with a request for comments on March 27, 2013. Subsequent to public review and comment period, the final version of the Interagency Guidelines was developed through a collaborative interagency process that promoted the open exchange of information and perspectives. The process has engaged the public through formal public review and workshops. The updated and modernized PR&G will improve Federal government decision making related to investment in water resource projects and, thus, improve how our country plans for infrastructure projects.
Revised Draft Guidance for Federal Departments and Agencies on Consideration of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and the Effects of Climate Change in NEPA Reviews
Document Number: 2014-30035
Type: Notice
Date: 2014-12-24
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is publishing revised draft guidance on how National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) analysis and documentation should address greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and the impacts of climate change. Many projects and programs proposed by, or requiring the approval of, the Federal Government have the potential to emit or sequester GHG, and may be potentially affected by climate changes. It follows, under NEPA, that Federal decisionmakers and the public should be informed about the proposal's GHG emissions and climate change impacts. Such information can help a decisionmaker make an informed choice between alternative actions that will result in different levels of GHG emissions, or consider mitigation measures to reduce the impacts of climate change. This revised draft guidance supersedes the draft guidance CEQ issued on February 18, 2010, entitled ``Draft NEPA Guidance on Consideration of the Effects of Climate Change and Greenhouse Gas Emissions.'' \1\ The February 2010 draft guidance specifically did not apply to land and resource management activities. That distinction is no longer retained, and this revised draft guidance applies to all proposed Federal agency actions subject to NEPA.
Opportunity for Sponsorship of the GreenGov Symposium
Document Number: 2014-26046
Type: Notice
Date: 2014-11-03
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
This notice informs the public of the opportunity for eligible non-governmental entities to submit an application for co-sponsorship of a potential White House Council on Environmental Quality 2015 GreenGov Symposium. Those interested in becoming co-sponsors should submit an application for co-sponsorship by November 28, 2014.
Effective Use of Programmatic NEPA Reviews
Document Number: 2014-20199
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2014-08-25
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is publishing draft guidance on when and how Federal agencies can effectively use National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) programmatic reviews. Guidance on programmatic NEPA reviews has been requested by the agencies and attention on programmatic NEPA reviews has increased as agencies are increasingly undertaking broad landscape scale analyses for proposals that affect the resources they manage. This guidance is designed to assist agency decision-makers and the public in understanding the environmental impacts from proposed large-scope Federal actions and activities and to facilitate agency compliance with NEPA by clarifying the different planning scenarios under which an agency may prepare a programmatic, broad-scale, review. The guidance also addresses how agencies can prepare such reviews to ensure they are timely, informative, and useful for advancing decision-making. The goal of this guidance is to encourage a more consistent approach to programmatic NEPA reviews so that the analyses and documentation will allow for the expeditious and efficient completion of any necessary tiered reviews. It builds on guidance issued since 1981 that explained the use of tiering and its place in the NEPA process.
Economic and Environmental Principles and Guidelines for Water and Related Land Resources Implementation Studies; Extension of Public Comment Period on the Interagency Guidelines
Document Number: 2013-12285
Type: Notice
Date: 2013-05-24
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
Section 2031 of the Water Resources Development Act of 2007 (Pub. L. 110-114) directed the Secretary of the Army to revise the ``Economic and Environmental Principles and Guidelines for Water and Related Land Resources Implementation Studies'' (Principles and Guidelines), dated March 10, 1983, consistent with several considerations enumerated in the Act. The revised Principles and Guidelines consist of three key components: (1) The Principles and Requirements (formerly called Principles and Standards), setting out broad policy and principles that guide investments; (2) the Interagency Guidelines, providing guidance to Federal agencies for determining the applicability of the Principles and Guidelines and for developing agency-specific implementing procedures for formulating, evaluating, and comparing water resources projects, programs, activities, and related actions; and (3) the Agency Specific Procedures, outlining agency-specific procedures for incorporating the Principles and Requirements into agency missions and programs. Per the March 27, 2013 notice, at 78 FR 18562 interested individuals and organizations are invited to submit comments on the draft Interagency Guidelines, one key component of the Principles and Guidelines. The draft Interagency Guidelines are available for review and comments can be submitted through the Web site, www.whitehouse.gov/ administration/eop/ceq/initiatives/PandG/. With this notice, we are pleased to inform you that this comment period (originally 60 days in duration) has been extended by 30 days. The new deadline for public comment on the draft Interagency Guidelines is June 27, 2013.
Economic and Environmental Principles and Guidelines for Water and Related Land Resources Implementation Studies; Request for Comments on the Interagency Guidelines
Document Number: 2013-07090
Type: Notice
Date: 2013-03-27
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
Section 2031 of the Water Resources Development Act of 2007 (Pub. L. 110-114) directed the Secretary of the Army to revise the ``Economic and Environmental Principles and Guidelines for Water and Related Land Resources Implementation Studies'' (Principles and Guidelines), dated March 10, 1983, consistent with several considerations enumerated in the Act. The revised Principles and Guidelines consist of three key components: (1) The Principles and Requirements (formerly called Principles and Standards), setting out broad policy and principles that guide investments; (2) the Interagency Guidelines, providing guidance to Federal agencies for determining the applicability of the Principles and Guidelines and for developing agency-specific implementing procedures for formulating, evaluating, and comparing water resources projects, programs, activities and related actions; and (3) the Agency Specific Procedures, outlining agency-specific procedures for incorporating the Principles and Requirements into agency missions and programs. This notice is to provide an opportunity for interested individuals and organizations to submit comments on the draft Interagency Guidelines, one key component of the Principles and Guidelines. The draft Interagency Guidelines are available for review and comments can be submitted through the Web site, www.whitehouse.gov/administration/ eop/ceq/initiatives/PandG/.
Economic and Environmental Principles and Requirements for Water and Related Land Resources Implementation Studies; Final
Document Number: 2013-07087
Type: Notice
Date: 2013-03-27
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
Section 2031 of the Water Resources Development Act of 2007 (Pub. L. 110-114) directed the Secretary of the Army to revise the ``Economic and Environmental Principles and Guidelines for Water and Related Land Resources Implementation Studies'' (Principles and Guidelines), dated March 10, 1983, consistent with several considerations enumerated in the Act. The revised Principles and Guidelines consist of three key components: (1) The Principles and Requirements (formerly called Principles and Standards), setting out broad policy and principles that guide investments; (2) the Interagency Guidelines, providing guidance to Federal agencies for determining the applicability of the Principles and Guidelines and for developing agency-specific implementing procedures for formulating, evaluating, and comparing water resources projects, programs, activities and related actions; and (3) the Agency Specific Procedures, outlining agency-specific procedures for incorporating the Principles and Requirements into agency missions and programs. This notice is to inform you that the Principles and Requirements, one key component of the Principles and Guidelines, are finalized and available at www.whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/ceq/initiatives/ PandG. The Principles and Requirements were developed through a collaborative interagency process that promoted the open exchange of information and perspectives. The process has engaged the public through formal public review and workshops, and included an external peer review by the National Academies of Science as required by the Water Resources Development Act of 2007. Modernized Principles and Guidelines will improve Federal government decision making related to investment in water resource projects and, thus, improve how our country plans for infrastructure projects.
National Ocean Council-National Ocean Policy Draft Implementation Plan
Document Number: 2012-6215
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-03-14
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
On July 19, 2010, President Obama signed Executive Order 13547 establishing a National Policy for the Stewardship of the Ocean, our Coasts, and the Great Lakes (National Ocean Policy). As part of the President's charge for Federal agencies to implement the National Ocean Policy, the National Ocean Council developed actions to achieve the Policy's nine priority objectives, and to address some of the most pressing challenges facing the ocean, our coasts, and the Great Lakes. Collectively, the actions are encompassed in a single draft National Ocean Policy Implementation Plan (Implementation Plan). The draft Implementation Plan describes more than 50 actions the Federal Government will take to improve the health of the ocean, coasts, and Great Lakes, which support tens of millions of jobs, contribute trillions of dollars a year to the national economy, and are essential to public health and national security. Next, public comments on the draft Implementation Plan will inform the preparation of the final plan. Per our prior notice, which was published at 77 FR 2514 on January 18, 2012, we welcome your general input, and also pose the following questions: Does the draft Implementation Plan reflect actions you see are needed to address the nine priorities for the ocean, coasts, and the Great Lakes? What is the most effective way to measure outcomes and to detect whether a particular action in the Implementation Plan has achieved its intended outcome? Would a report card format be useful? With this notice, we are pleased to inform you that the comment period on the draft Implementation Plan has been extended. As stated on the National Ocean Council's Web site, https://www.WhiteHouse.gov/ oceans, on February 28, 2012, the new deadline for public comment on the draft Implementation Plan is March 28, 2012. Comments received will be collated and posted on the National Ocean Council Web site. The final Implementation Plan is expected in the spring of 2012.
Revision to Guidance, “Federal Greenhouse Gas Accounting and Reporting”
Document Number: 2012-5931
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-03-12
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
On October 5, 2009, President Obama signed Executive Order (EO) 13514, ``Federal Leadership in Environmental, Energy, and Economic Performance'' (74 FR 52117), in order to establish an integrated strategy toward sustainability in the Federal government and to make reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions a priority for Federal agencies. Among other provisions, EO 13514 requires agencies to measure, report, and reduce their GHG emissions. On October 6, 2010, The White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) released Guidance on Federal Greenhouse Gas Accounting and Reporting that establishes Government-wide requirements for measuring and reporting greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with Federal agency operations. On July 18, 2011, The Department of Energy's (DOE's) Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP), Department of Defense (DoD), and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provided recommendations for revision to the Federal GHG reporting and accounting procedures. CEQ provides this draft revision of the guidance for public review and comment to ensure accessibility of Federal accounting and reporting requirements and to enhance the quality of public involvement in governmental decisions relating to the environment.
Final Guidance on Improving the Process for Preparing Efficient and Timely Environmental Reviews Under the National Environmental Policy Act
Document Number: 2012-5812
Type: Rule
Date: 2012-03-12
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is issuing its final guidance on Improving the Process for Preparing Efficient and Timely Environmental Reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act. The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and CEQ Regulations implementing NEPA provide numerous techniques for preparing efficient and timely environmental reviews. CEQ is issuing this guidance for Federal departments and agencies to emphasize and clarify that these techniques are available for all NEPA Environmental Assessments and Environmental Impact Statements. These techniques are consistent with a thorough and meaningful environmental review and agencies using these techniques should keep in mind the following basic principles: NEPA encourages straightforward and concise reviews and documentation that are proportionate to potential impacts and effectively convey the relevant considerations in a timely manner to the public and decision makers, while rigorously addressing the issues presented; NEPA shall be integrated into project planning to ensure planning and decisions reflect environmental considerations, avoid delays later in the process, and anticipate and attempt to resolve issues, rather than be an after-the-fact process that justifies decisions already made; NEPA reviews should coordinate and take appropriate advantage of existing documents and studies, including through adoption and incorporation by reference; early and well-defined scoping can assist in focusing environmental reviews on appropriate issues that would be meaningful to a decision on the proposed action; agencies are encouraged to develop meaningful, predictable, and expeditious timelines for environmental reviews; and agencies should respond to comments in proportion to the scope and scale of the environmental issues raised. This guidance applies equally to the preparation of an Environmental Assessment or an Environmental Impact Statement consistent with legal precedent and agency NEPA experience and practice. This guidance does not change or substitute for any law, regulations, or any other legally binding requirement. It does provide CEQ's interpretation of existing regulations promulgated under NEPA.
National Ocean Council-National Ocean Policy Draft Implementation Plan
Document Number: 2012-840
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-01-18
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
On July 19, 2010, President Obama signed Executive Order 13547 establishing a National Policy for the Stewardship of the Ocean, our Coasts, and the Great Lakes (National Ocean Policy). As part of the President's charge for Federal agencies to implement the National Ocean Policy, the National Ocean Council developed actions to achieve the Policy's nine priority objectives, and to address some of the most pressing challenges facing the ocean, our coasts, and the Great Lakes. Collectively, the actions are encompassed in a single draft National Ocean Policy Implementation Plan (Implementation Plan). The draft Implementation Plan describes more than 50 actions the Federal Government will take to improve the health of the ocean, coasts, and Great Lakes, which support tens of millions of jobs, contribute trillions of dollars a year to the national economy, and are essential to public health and national security. The draft Implementation Plan will ensure the Federal Government targets limited resources more effectively to deliver demonstrable results for the American people, including predictability for users, more efficient and coordinated decision-making, and improved sharing of data and technology. For each action, the Implementation Plan outlines key milestones, identifies responsible agencies, and indicates the expected timeframe for completion. Experts from the National Ocean Council's member departments, agencies, and offices developed the actions in the draft Implementation Plan with significant input from national, regional, and local stakeholders and the general public. The development process included public comment periods from January through April 2011 and June through July 2011, and 12 regional listening sessions around the country. Next, public comments on the draft Implementation Plan will inform the preparation of the final plan. We welcome your general input, and also pose the following questions: Does the draft Implementation Plan reflect actions you see are needed to address the nine priorities for the ocean, coasts, and the Great lakes? What is the most effective way to measure outcomes and to detect whether a particular action in the Implementation Plan has achieved its intended outcome? Would a report card format be useful? Comments received will be collated and posted on the National Ocean Council Web site. The final Implementation Plan is expected in the spring of 2012.
Draft Guidance on Improving the Process for Preparing Efficient and Timely Environmental Reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act
Document Number: 2011-31983
Type: Notice
Date: 2011-12-13
Agency: Council on Environmental Quality, Executive Office of the President
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is issuing its draft guidance on Improving the Process for Preparing Efficient and Timely Environmental Reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act for public review and comment. The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and CEQ Regulations implementing NEPA provide numerous techniques for preparing efficient and timely environmental reviews. CEQ is issuing this guidance for Federal departments and agencies to emphasize and clarify these techniques, consistent with a thorough and meaningful environmental review and keeping in mind the following basic principles: (1) NEPA encourages simple, straightforward, and concise reviews and documentation that are proportionate to and effectively convey the relevant considerations in a timely manner to the public and decisionmakers, while comprehensively addressing the issues presented; (2) NEPA should be integrated into project planning rather than be an after-the-fact add-on; (3) NEPA reviews should coordinate and take appropriate advantage of existing documents and studies, including through adoption and incorporation by reference; (4) Early and well- defined scoping can assist in focusing environmental reviews on appropriate issues that would be meaningful to a decision on the proposed action; (5) Agencies are encouraged to develop meaningful and expeditious timelines for environmental reviews; and (6) Agencies should respond to comments in proportion to the scope and scale of the environmental issues raised. This guidance applies to the preparation of an Environmental Assessment (EA) or an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) consistent with legal precedent and agency NEPA experience and practice. This guidance does not change or substitute for any law, regulations, or any other legally binding requirement. Rather, it provides CEQ's interpretation of existing regulations promulgated under NEPA.
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