The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published a proposed rule on June 25, 2026 to amend its procedures for implementing the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA), with comments due July 27, 2026.

The proposed rule (Document No. 2026-12862) would update EPA's NEPA implementing procedures to align with a series of statutory, regulatory, and judicial developments. Specifically, the proposal incorporates:

• Amendments to NEPA enacted through the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 (FRA) and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025 (OBBBA)
• Changes consistent with Executive Order 14154, Unleashing American Energy
• Adjustments following the Council on Environmental Quality's (CEQ) rescission of its NEPA regulations
• Guidance reflecting the Supreme Court's May 29, 2025 decision in Seven County Infrastructure Coalition v. Eagle County, Colorado, 605 U.S. 168 (2025)

The EPA stated the proposed amendments are intended to create efficiencies in NEPA implementation and harmonize EPA's procedures with those of other federal agencies where possible. The proposal also includes technical amendments to correct errors and update office names and titles.

For federal contractors engaged in projects that trigger NEPA reviews — including infrastructure, energy, and environmental remediation work — the proposed rule signals an evolving regulatory landscape. Contractors working on EPA-overseen projects should monitor the rulemaking closely, as procedural changes could affect environmental review timelines and documentation requirements.

Comments must be received on or before July 27, 2026.

Source: Federal Register — Document No. 2026-12862