Federal Register #USDA-2025-0008

USDA Final Rule Revising NEPA Implementation Regulations

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has released a final rule updating its implementation of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA): - Aligns USDA NEPA procedures with recent statutory amendments, executive orders, and Supreme Court decisions - Removes outdated, agency-specific NEPA regulations to streamline and standardize processes across USDA - Incorporates changes from the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) and the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 - Updates procedures for preparing environmental impact statements and environmental reviews - Clarifies requirements for public comment periods and electronic submission of documents - No products, services, or external vendors are being procured; the rule pertains to internal USDA regulatory practices - Notable requirements include adherence to updated NEPA statutory language, best practices for environmental review, and enhanced public engagement mechanisms

Description

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is adopting as final the interim final rule (IFR) published on July 3, 2025, which revises departmental regulations implementing the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). This final rule removes various USDA agency regulations for implementing NEPA and aligns USDA regulations with statutory changes, executive orders, and recent case law, including a landmark Supreme Court decision. The rule provides updated procedures for environmental impact statements and promotes efficient and effective environmental reviews. It is effective April 3, 2026.

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