The NEPA “Phase 2” Final Regulations Will Hinder Critical Projects
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Kenna O’Neill — koneill@miningamerica.org
The American Exploration & Mining Association released the following statement regarding the NEPA "Phase 2" Final Rule:
"CEQ’s “Phase 2” NEPA rule seeks to use the rulemaking process to transform NEPA from a law that informs decisions to one that predetermines them. It will significantly interfere with mineral exploration and development, and will therefore have a profoundly negative economic impact on our Nation’s dire need for domestically produced minerals. While the rule adopts, as it must, elements of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA), its provisions run contrary to the intent of the FRA, which is to create less complexity and unpredictability in the review process, not more. The final rule will only increase the complexity of analysis that agencies will need to perform, delay decision-making, and drive increased litigation, ultimately blocking the realization of much-needed projects of all types,” said American Exploration & Mining Association Executive Director, Mark Compton.
About AEMA: American Exploration & Mining Association is a 129 year old, 1,800 member, national association representing the minerals industry. With members in 46 states, AEMA is the recognized national voice for exploration, the junior mining sector, maintaining access to public lands, and represents the entire mining life cycle, from exploration through production to reclamation and closure.