What does the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) require?

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) primarily requires that federal agencies assess the environmental effects of their proposed actions before making decisions. This involves a comprehensive environmental analysis for federally funded or permitted projects, ensuring that potential environmental impacts are considered during the planning stages. NEPA mandates the preparation of Environmental Assessments (EAs) and Environmental Impact Statements (EISs) to evaluate not only the direct impacts of projects but also their cumulative impacts over time. By requiring these analyses, NEPA encourages public involvement and transparency in federal decision-making, making it a cornerstone of environmental protection in the United States.

The other options do not reflect NEPA's requirements. For example, while projects on state property might involve similar considerations, NEPA specifically pertains to federal projects. Variance requests and interstate land sales are governed by different laws and regulations unrelated to NEPA's core focus on federal environmental review processes.