Potential Impacts on HUD Environmental Review Procedures
The Chairman of the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is now responsible for guiding the implementation of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and suggesting the repeal of CEQ’s NEPA regulations, found at 40 CFR Parts 1500-1508. These regulations outline how federal agencies must comply with NEPA. The repeal of these regulations may necessitate HUD to revise 24 CFR Part 50 and Part 58, as these regulations are based on the foundation of the CEQ’s NEPA regulations. The overarching goal of the EO is to streamline and expedite the permitting process, with a focus on efficiency and certainty. Agencies are directed to eliminate permitting process delays and leverage all available authorities to accelerate federal permits for projects deemed vital for the nation’s economy or national security.
HUD’s Current NEPA Compliance Approach
HUD has diligently developed a thoughtful, comprehensive, and expeditious approach to NEPA compliance. HUD offers tools, tutorials, and a robust online system to achieve compliance with NEPA requirements.
Looking Ahead
While the full impact of the Unleashing American Energy EO on HUD Environmental Review procedures remains to be seen, it is hoped that HUD’s existing process for CENST, CEST, and EA level reviews will remain largely unchanged. These reviews provide essential environmental and public health checks and balances.