Major federal action refers to actions undertaken by federal agencies that have significant effects on the environment or public welfare. These actions may be subject to federal oversight and responsibility, meaning that they can influence decisions made at various levels of government. The term encompasses a wide range of activities, including projects that require federal funding, permits, or approvals.
This term is commonly used in environmental law, particularly in the context of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Major federal actions often require an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) or an Environmental Assessment (EA) to evaluate their potential effects. Legal practitioners may encounter this term in cases involving federal projects, land use, and regulatory compliance. Users can manage some related processes using legal templates provided by US Legal Forms.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A federal highway construction project that requires federal funding and has the potential to affect nearby ecosystems would be classified as a major federal action.
Example 2: A federal agency's decision to approve a new energy facility that may impact local air quality is also considered a major federal action.
The primary statute governing major federal actions is the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). This law requires federal agencies to assess the environmental effects of their proposed actions before making decisions. Key case law includes:
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Action | Any action taken by a federal agency. | Major federal action specifically refers to actions with significant effects. |
| Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) | A document required by NEPA that outlines the potential environmental effects of a proposed federal action. | An EIS is often a requirement for major federal actions. |
If you believe a federal action may impact your community or environment, consider the following steps:
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| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Typical Fees | Varies based on the project and agency. |
| Jurisdiction | Federal level, but can affect state and local jurisdictions. |
| Possible Penalties | Non-compliance can lead to legal challenges and project delays. |
Any federal action that has significant effects on the environment or public welfare qualifies as a major federal action.