The American Exploration & Mining Association (AEMA) said it applauds the CEQ for this much-needed proposal to modernize and clarify its NEPA regulations. As one of the first environmental laws in this country, AEMA explained that NEPA was landmark legislation, signaling the dawning of environmental awareness and the first step down the path of enacting what has become a comprehensive and effective federal and state statutory framework to protect the environment.

However, since it was enacted, there have been more environmental lawsuits filed under NEPA than under any other environmental statute. Delays in reviews and decision-making have slowed energy and mineral projects in the U.S. and deterred future investment in those projects. “While a NEPA analysis has become ‘standard operating procedure’ for our members, it also has become increasingly more cumbersome, time consuming and expensive,” said AEMA Executive Director Mark Compton. “NEPA is no longer the planning and decision-making tool it was designed to be. Instead, it has become the tool used by obstructionist groups who oppose responsible and lawful mineral development on federal public lands.

“Reforming the NEPA process and creating a more efficient permitting system are critical to improving the competitiveness of the domestic mining industry, job creation, and decreasing our reliance on foreign sources of energy and minerals.”

CEQ’s proposed rule would codify important aspects of the President Donald Trump Administration’s One Federal Decision policy, including establishing a twoyear time limit and improving agency coordination through development by the lead agency of a joint schedule; preparation of a single EIS and joint record of decision; and procedures to elevate and resolve disputes that could lead to delays. Additionally, CEQ has proposed provisions setting presumptive page limits, and for determining the appropriate level of NEPA review, ensuring timely submission of relevant information to inform decision-making, and facilitating the use of existing state, tribal, and local studies, analyses, and environmental documents, among other things.

AEMA said it will submit detailed comments on the proposed rule during the comment period.