Which law established the framework for regulating state-level environmental policies in the US?

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) established a critical framework for regulating state-level environmental policies in the United States by mandating that federal agencies assess the environmental impacts of their proposed actions before making decisions. Enacted in 1969, NEPA requires the preparation of detailed statements regarding the potential environmental effects of proposed federal projects and legislative proposals. This promotes sustainability and environmental protection by encouraging federal agencies to consider environmental factors in their decision-making processes.

NEPA also serves as a catalyst for states to develop their own environmental policies, as it provides guidelines that influence local and state level practices. States often adopt additional regulations that align with or expand upon the federal standards set forth by NEPA, thereby creating a comprehensive legal framework for environmental protection at various governmental levels. Thus, NEPA plays a foundational role in shaping responsible environmental governance in the United States.