Comment Letter on NEPA Implementing Regulations Phase 2

technologyrestoration
Written By Christopher Putney

In response to the recent invitation for public comment from the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) on NEPA revisions, EPIC submitted comments in collaboration with the the Federation of American Scientists and NEPAccess. Given both the pace of climate change and the long-standing challenges linked to federal permitting, we see innovation around technology, data, and talent as essential to achieving NEPA goals. Effective and well-designed IT systems can only be built with input from strong technical teams, and our recommendations reflect how CEQ can leverage and amplify leading practices with new technology, data, and teaming. Our recommendations include:

  • Following Human Centered Design (HCD) processes.

  • Centralizing access to NEPA documents and ensure that a user-friendly platform is available to facilitate public engagement.

  • Piloting interagency programs to coordinate permitting data for existing and future needs.

  • Prioritizing digital applications with easy-to-use forms.

  • Bolstering the use of decision support tools.

  • Utilizing e-NEPA to improve deadline tracking.

Christopher Putney
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