[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 188 (Friday, September 29, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 45421-45433]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-20614]



 ========================================================================
 Rules and Regulations
                                                 Federal Register
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 This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents 
 having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed 
 to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published 
 under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.
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 The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents. 
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  Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 188 / Friday, September 29, 2017 / 
Rules and Regulations  

[[Page 45421]]



NATIONAL CAPITAL PLANNING COMMISSION

1 CFR Part 601


National Environmental Policy Act Regulations

AGENCY: National Capital Planning Commission.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC or Commission) 
rescinds its current Environmental and Historic Preservation Policies 
and Procedures (2004 Policies) and hereby adopts new rules governing 
NCPC's implementation of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

DATES: This rule is effective October 30, 2017.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Anne R. Schuyler, (202) 482-7223 or 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

I. Summary of Changes

A. Background

    NCPC's 2004 Policies were adopted in 2004 (69 FR 41299, July 8, 
2004) and generally remain appropriate. However certain portions of the 
2004 Policies require revision to simplify, streamline, and improve the 
effectiveness of NCPC's process for complying with NEPA. Accordingly, 
this document adopts a complete new rule.

B. Elimination of Section 106 Procedures

    One of the most significant changes reflected in the new rule is 
the elimination of procedures for complying with Section 106 of the 
National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). In 2004, when it adopted the 
2004 Policies, NCPC opted to issue combined NEPA and NHPA guidance to 
ensure coordinated implementation of both procedures. However, 
regulations promulgated by the Advisory Council on Historic 
Preservation (ACHP) do not require agencies to adopt agency specific 
processes and procedures (see 36 CFR chapter VIII). Instead ACHP 
regulations establish the processes and procedures all Federal Agencies 
must follow. This resulted in the inclusion of duplicative information 
in NCPC's 2004 Policies. While this information proved helpful, it 
diverted attention away from NCPC's agency-specific NEPA procedures 
mandated by the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ). Accordingly, 
this rule does not include detailed references to the Section 106 
consultation process. It does include a reference to coordination 
between NEPA and NHPA and consideration of historic resources in the 
NEPA process.

C. Federal and Non-Federal Agencies

    To clarify roles and responsibilities, these Regulations 
distinguish between Federal Agency applicants and Non-Federal Agency 
applicants. Federal Agency applicants include cabinet level departments 
and executive agencies such as the U.S. General Services Administration 
(GSA). Non-Federal Agency applicants include, without limitation, the 
Smithsonian Institution, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing 
Arts, the National Gallery of Art, the U.S. Institute of Peace, the 
Government of the District of Columbia, the Maryland National Capital 
Park and Planning Commission (MNCPPC), and private parties and entities 
implementing projects on Federal land. NCPC's jurisdiction extends to 
Non-Federal Agency applicants when they undertake projects on 
federally-owned land. Under this rule, NCPC serves as the Lead Agency 
for Non-Federal Agency applications. This is necessitated by the fact 
the Non-Federal Agencies are not subject to NEPA. However, if the 
Commission takes an approval action on a Non-Federal Agency 
application, the requirements of NEPA apply to the Commission's 
decision-making process. This means NCPC must undertake the requisite 
steps of the NEPA process for a Non-Federal Agency application to meet 
its legal obligation.

D. Timing and Sequencing of Submission of NEPA Documents

    These Regulations also alter the timing and sequencing of an 
applicant's submission of NEPA documentation for applications governed 
by the National Capital Planning Act and the Commemorative Works Act. 
Under the 2004 Policies, an applicant was required to complete the NEPA 
process at the time of preliminary review. Under this rule, an 
applicant must complete its NEPA process at the time of final review. 
This revised approach allows the Commission an opportunity to provide 
input on a project when it is still in the developmental phase. It also 
provides a NEPA sequencing consistent with Federal Agency project 
development schedules. This eliminates the pressure on Federal Agency 
applicants to expedite its NEPA process to meet NCPC's current 
sequencing requirements.

E. Categorical Exclusions

    NCPC's rule also includes changes to the list of projects eligible 
for application of a Categorical Exclusion (CATEX). The Regulations 
include several new CATEXs. NCPC eliminated several existing CATEXs 
because they were based on old, antiquated authorities which have 
little to no relationship to NCPC's present day review roles. The rule 
also increase the number of extraordinary circumstances which negate 
the application of a CATEX.

II. Summary of and Response to Comments

A. General

    NCPC published a Proposed Rule (82 FR 42570, May 30, 2017) 
addressing revisions to its 2004 Policies, establishing a 45-day public 
comment period. The public comment period closed on July 14, 2017.
    NCPC received a little under 100 comments on its proposed NEPA rule 
Regulations. Comments were submitted by the General Services 
Administration, the U.S. Department of the Interior and it's National 
Park Service, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration; 
the Smithsonian Institution; the Washington Area Metropolitan Transit 
Authority; the National Trust for Historic Preservation; The Committee 
of 100 on the Federal City; approximately 21 members of the general 
public; and two private consulting firms. A summary chart of all the 
comments received and NCPC's response thereto can be found on NCPC's 
Web site at www.ncpc.gov/subnepa.

[[Page 45422]]

    The major comments can be grouped into six categories: (1) The 
elimination of detailed reference to compliance with Section 106 of the 
NHPA; (2) the treatment of Non-Federal Agencies in the Regulations; (3) 
the timing and sequencing of submitting NEPA Documents/Co-Signing a 
Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) or a Record of Decision (ROD); 
(4) NCPC's reliance on the CATEX of other government agencies; and (5) 
the minimal focus on public participation in the NEPA process/lack of 
public knowledge of process for administering CATEXs.

B. Revised Name for the Regulations

    NCPC decided to rename its NEPA requirements the National 
Environmental Policy Act Regulations (Regulations). This title is more 
descriptive of the true nature of the Regulations versus the title of 
Environmental Policies and Procedures conferred on the 2004 Policies.

C. Elimination of NHPA Section 106 Requirements

    Several comments addressed the elimination of NHPA Section 106 
procedures from the Regulations. The National Trust for Historic 
Preservation generally agreed with the elimination, but it suggested 
designating the NEPA Lead and Cooperating Agencies as the Lead and 
Consulting Parties for the Section 106 process. NCPC disagrees with 
this suggestion. NCPC maintains it is inappropriate to designate roles 
for the Section 106 process in its NEPA Regulations. To compensate for 
the elimination, a member of the public suggested reference to ACHP 
guidance on the ACHP for integrating NEPA and the Section 106 
processes. While NCPC found merit to this comment and initially 
inserted an endnote to the ACHP Web site and the CEQ Web site for 
general NEPA guidance, CEQ believed the references unnecessary. 
Finally, the Committee of 100 on the Federal City maintained the 
elimination of references to the Section 106 process sent a negative 
message about the connection between the two processes. NCPC notes this 
was not its intention as evidenced by the clearly articulated policy in 
Sec.  601.2(d) to integrate the requirements of NEPA with, among 
others, the requirements of the NHPA.

D. Role of Non-Federal Agencies

    The role of Non-Federal Agencies in the NEPA process generated a 
number of comments. The Smithsonian Institution (designated a Non-
Federal Agency in the Regulations) recommended the re-designation of 
Federal and Non-Federal Agencies as Executive and Non-Executive 
Agencies on the theory that this might be less confusing. NCPC declined 
to make this change because of the repeated use of the term ``federal'' 
in the National Capital Planning Act (40 U.S.C. 8701 et seq.). However, 
for clarification purposes, NCPC revised the definition of Non-Federal 
Agencies to indicate this designation applies only for purposes of 
NEPA.
    One member of the public challenged the legality of designating 
Non-Federal Agencies as ``Cooperating Agencies'' given that the CEQ 
regulatory definition only designates ``federal agencies'' as capable 
of serving in this capacity. NCPC notes this statement is only 
partially correct. The definition of Cooperating Agency in 40 CFR 
1508.5 also extends to state or local agencies rendering such agencies 
eligible to serve as Cooperating Agencies. This makes Cooperating 
Agency status appropriate for the Government of the District of 
Columbia and the Maryland National Capital Park and Planning 
Commission. As to the others listed in the definition--Smithsonian 
Institution, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the 
National Gallery of Art, the U.S. Institute of Peace, and private 
parties undertaking development on Federal land--NCPC agrees an 
alternative approach is necessary.
    NCPC also agrees with the same individual's multiple comments that 
NCPC does not undertake NEPA ``on behalf'' of Non-Federal Agencies. 
NCPC recognizes that the NEPA obligation for a Non-Federal Agency 
application belongs to NCPC. NCPC believes a minor wording change to 
``undertakes NEPA for a Non-Federal Agency application'' solves this 
concern.
    Turning to an alternative approach for NEPA compliance for Non-
Federal Agency applications, NCPC notes it is not alone in confronting 
the issue of Non-Federal Agency applications to which NEPA applies 
because of the Federal Agency's approval/permitting authority. NCPC 
looked at the NEPA regulations for similarly situated Federal Agencies 
to ascertain how they handle the issue. One Federal Agency lists in its 
regulations the information that the Non-Federal Agency (permittee and 
owner of the project) must submit to facilitate staff's preparation of 
the requisite NEPA document. Because this approach increased the 
complexity of the agency's regulations, and NCPC's goal is to 
streamline its regulations consistent with the Administration's 
articulated regulatory reduction goals, NCPC adopted a modified version 
of this approach.
    NCPC will enter into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) (renamed from 
a Memorandum of Understanding or MOU in the proposed rule) with Non-
Federal Agencies. The MOA will specify, among others, the information 
the Non-Federal Agency must submit to enable preparation of the 
requisite environmental document by NCPC staff and the timing of the 
information's submission. Contrary to the comments on one individual, 
NCPC disagrees the MOA approach is legally insufficient. This comment 
implies NCPC is relinquishing its NEPA responsibilities by entering 
into a MOA. This is not the case. NCPC considers the MOA an internal 
operating procedure within its authority to implement. It is also an 
efficient and effective way to fulfill its NEPA obligation and avoid 
some of the pitfalls associated with the prior approach of Cooperating 
Agency status. The problems avoided include budgetary issues if the 
Non-Federal Agency provides money to NCPC to retain a contractor, Non-
Federal Agency participation in NCPC's retention of the Non-Federal 
Agency funded contractor, and the potential for two A&E contractors 
working on different aspects of the same project. To facilitate public 
awareness, NCPC will post the completed MOA on the NCPC's Web site.
    NCPC notes that in a follow-up conversation with the commenter to 
explore the rationale for opposing an MOA, the commenter agreed the MOA 
approach as outlined above is legally sufficient. NCPC conducted the 
follow-up conversation after the comment period closed, and no new 
comments were discussed during the conversation.

E. Timing and Sequencing of Submitting NEPA Documents/Co-Signing FONSIs 
and RODs

    All the government agencies supported NCPC's process change of 
moving NEPA completion to coincide with the Commission's final 
approval. There was one concern expressed about the sequencing of NEPA 
and the Commemorative Works Act's review process, but NCPC believes the 
comment was the result of a misunderstanding of the process.
    Multiple Federal Agencies also advised against incorporation of a 
provision allowing NCPC to co-sign another agency's FONSI or ROD. NCPC 
notes that the Regulations render this practice discretionary. However, 
if both agencies agree on the contents of a FONSI or ROD, it makes no 
sense for NCPC to prepare a duplicated document for NCPC to sign. 
Obviously, if the two agencies have different reasons for

[[Page 45423]]

reaching a FONSI or a ROD, co-signature is not an option, and each 
agency will have to prepare its own document. Co-signature is also not 
an option if there is disagreement over the ability to reach a FONSI or 
ROD. This disagreement points to problems with the Environmental 
Document that must be resolved before the project can be presented to 
the Commission. Finally, NCPC reminds Federal Agencies that co-signing 
a FONSI or ROD is entirely consistent with the Administration's efforts 
to streamline regulatory processes especially NEPA.

F. Use of Another Agency's CATEX

    The inclusion of five Categorical Exclusions that allowed NCPC to 
use the exclusion of another agency when it had no corresponding CATEX 
generated a number of comments pro and con. Federal Agencies supported 
the concept because it removed the possible need for them to prepare an 
EA if they used a Categorical Exclusions for their project but NCPC had 
no exclusion it could apply. The National Trust for Historic 
preservation and a member of the general public objected to the 
approach noting it was inconsistent with CEQ's long standing policy to 
disallow such an approach.
    As required, NCPC submitted an administrative record to CEQ for all 
of its proposed CATEX, most of which are carry-overs from several 
iterations of prior regulations. The administrative record noted that 
the five CATEXs predicated upon use of another agency's exclusion had 
not been enlarged in scope and the CATEX continued to be appropriately 
limited by extraordinary circumstances, the number of which has been 
significantly increased in the Regulations.
    NCPC's Administrative Record for the five CATEXs at issue was 
initially accepted, but upon further reflection CEQ has decided to 
adhere to its long standing policy to disallow such an approach. 
Consequently, NCPC has removed all five of the CATEXs at issue. Since 
four of the five CATEX at issue have been put to little use for a 
prolonged period of time, NCPC does not believe its implementation of 
NEPA will be unduly burdened by this removal. The addition of new CATEX 
may also fill the gap.

G. Public Participation/Public Knowledge of Process for Administering 
CATEX

    The Committee of 100 on the Federal City commented on the silence 
of the proposed regulation on the goals, criteria and process for 
meaningful public participation. They encouraged the incorporation of 
meaningful public participation policy and goals to rectify this 
deficiency.
    NCPC is fully committed to open government and transparency and 
believes its past actions amply substantiate this commitment not only 
in the NEPA and Section 106 processes but to all of its significant 
planning activities. Accordingly, the Regulations clearly articulate a 
policy of using the NEPA process to ``. . . foster meaningful public 
involvement in NCPC's decisions.'' Moreover, throughout the 
Regulations, there are repeated opportunities for public participation 
to include in the EIS scoping process with an option for NCPC to 
conduct a public scoping process for Environmental Assessments as well; 
in the review of draft Environmental Assessments (EAs) (at NCPC's 
option) and Environmental Impact Statements (EISs); and in the review 
of FONSIs and RODs. Moreover, at the suggestion of another commenter, 
documents required to be published in the Federal Register (Notice of 
Intent to Prepare an EIS and Notice of Availability of an EIS) will 
also be published on the NCPC Web site where parties interested in NCPC 
activities are more likely to go to stay abreast of current NCPC 
events.
    The Committee of 100 on the Federal City also expressed concern 
about the Regulation's silence on the administrative process for the 
application of a CATEX. NCPC notes that among the Commission's official 
delegations is one conferring administrative responsibility for NEPA on 
the Executive Director. In the future, owing to the recent redesign of 
NCPC's Web site, the delegations will be listed on the Web site. 
However, NCPC notes this responsibility, how and when it is made, and 
how the public is notified of the decision is set forth in Sec. Sec.  
601.11(c) and 601.12(b) of the Regulations.

H. CEQ Comments

    As required by CEQ Regulations, NCPC submitted a draft of this 
final rule to CEQ for its review and approval following revisions to 
the Regulations to reflect comments received during the public comment 
period. CEQ responded with a number of recommendations. Most of the 
recommendations were minor in nature and involved language 
clarifications, addition of cross-references to relevant sections of 
CEQ's regulations, and inclusion of additional language.
    The one recommendation falling outside the minor category related 
to the timing of the signing FONSIs and RODs by Federal Agency 
applicants and NCPC for Non-Federal Agency applications. NCPC has in 
the past accepted signed FONSIs and RODs at the time an application for 
final approval is submitted to the Commission. This practice reflects 
the close coordination between NCPC and its applicants and the 
likelihood that the Commission, with rare exceptions, will approve the 
final application. CEQ (and one commenter) pointed out that 
notwithstanding the high probability the signed FONSI or ROD would 
reflect the Commission's decision, it was technically incorrect. The 
signature of a FONSI or ROD can only occur after the Commission takes a 
final action and cannot precede a future, anticipated decision of 
approval.
    In response to CEQ's comment, the rule requires NCPC to sign its 
decision documents following Commission final approval of an 
application. As to Federal Agencies, the rule is silent as to when the 
Federal Agency may sign its FONSI or ROD. However, there is now an 
express provision that places the burden on Federal Agency applicants 
to review their Environmental Documents and their FONSI or ROD to 
determine if revisions are necessary if at the time of final approval 
the Commission disapproves an application and requires changes to the 
project.
    Following incorporation of all of CEQ's recommended changes into 
the regulations, NCPC received final CEQ sign off on September 21, 
2017.

III. Compliance With Laws and Executive Orders

Executive Orders 12866 and 13563

    By Memorandum dated October 12, 1993 from Sally Katzen, 
Administrator, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) to 
Heads of Executive Departments and Agencies, and Independent Agencies, 
OMB rendered the NCPC exempt from the requirements of Executive Order 
12866 (See, Appendix A of cited Memorandum). Nonetheless, NCPC 
endeavors to adhere to the provisions of the Executive Order.

Executive Order 13771

    NCPC is exempt from this Executive Order because it is exempt from 
E.O. 12866, NCPC confirmed this fact with OIRA.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    As required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et 
seq.), the NCPC certifies that the rule will not have a significant 
economic effect on a substantial number of small entities.

[[Page 45424]]

Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act

    This is not a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804(2), the Small Business 
Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act. It does not have an annual effect 
on the economy of $100 million or more; will not cause a major increase 
in costs for individuals, various levels of governments or various 
regions; and does not have a significant adverse effect on completion, 
employment, investment, productivity, innovation or the competitiveness 
of U.S. enterprises with foreign enterprises.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.)

    A statement regarding the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act is not 
required. The rule neither imposes an unfunded mandate of more than 
$100 million per year nor imposes a significant or unique effect on 
State, local or tribal governments or the private sector.

Federalism (Executive Order 13132)

    In accordance with Executive Order 13132, the rule does not have 
sufficient federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a 
Federalism Assessment. The rule does not substantially and directly 
affect the relationship between the Federal and state governments.

Civil Justice Reform (Executive Order 12988)

    The General Counsel of NCPC has determined that the rule does not 
unduly burden the judicial system and meets the requirements of 
Executive Order 12988 3(a) and 3(b)(2).

Paperwork Reduction Act

    The rule does not contain information collection requirements, and 
it does not require a submission to the Office of Management and Budget 
under the Paperwork Reduction Act.

National Environmental Policy Act

    The rule is of an administrative nature, and its adoption does not 
constitute a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality 
of the human environment. NCPC's adoption of the rule will have minimal 
or no effect on the environment; impose no significant change to 
existing environmental conditions; and will have no cumulative 
environmental impacts.

Clarity of the Regulation

    Executive Order 12866, Executive Order 12988, and the Presidential 
Memorandum of June 1, 1998 requires the NCPC to write all rules in 
plain language. NCPC maintains the rule meets this requirement.

Public Availability of Comments

    Be advised that personal information such as name, address, phone 
number electronic address, or other identifying personal information 
contained in a comment may be made publically available. Individuals 
may ask NCPC to withhold the personal information in their comment, but 
there is no guarantee the agency can do so.

List of Subjects in 1 CFR Part 601

    Environmental impact statements, Environmental protection.

0
For the reasons stated in the preamble, the National Capital Planning 
Commission adds 1 CFR part 601 to read as follows:

PART 601--IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT

Subpart A--General
Sec.
601.1 Purpose.
601.2 Policies.
601.3 Definitions.
Subpart B--Lead and Cooperating Agencies
601.4 Designation of Lead Agency.
601.5 Lead Agency obligations.
601.6 Resolving disputes over Lead Agency status.
601.7 Cooperating Agencies.
Subpart C--NEPA Submission Schedules
601.8 NEPA submission schedule for applications governed by the 
National Capital Planning Act.
601.9 NEPA submission schedule for applications governed by the 
Commemorative Works Act.
Subpart D--Initiating the NEPA Process
601.10 Characteristics of Commission actions eligible for a 
Categorical Exclusion.
601.11 Extraordinary Circumstances.
601.12 National Capital Planning Commission Categorical Exclusions.
Subpart E--Environmental Assessments
601.13 Characteristics of Commission actions eligible for an 
Environmental Assessment.
601.14 Commission actions generally eligible for an Environmental 
Assessment.
601.15 Process for preparing an Environmental Assessment.
601.16 Finding of No Significant Impact.
601.17 Supplemental Environmental Assessments.
Subpart F--Environmental Impact Statements
601.18 Requirement for and timing of an Environmental Impact 
Statement.
601.19 Context, intensity, and significance of impacts.
601.20 Streamlining Environmental Impact Statements.
601.21 Programmatic Environmental Impact Statements and tiering.
601.22 Contents of an Environmental Impact Statement.
601.23 The Environmental Impact Statement process.
601.24 Final Environmental Impact Statement.
601.25 Record of Decision.
601.26 Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement.
601.27 Legislative Environmental Impact Statement.
Subpart G--Dispute Resolution
601.28 Dispute resolution.
601.29 [Reserved]

    Authority:  40 CFR 1507.3.

Subpart A--General


Sec.  601.1  Purpose.

    This part establishes rules that supplement the Council on 
Environmental Quality's (CEQ) National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) 
regulations that the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC or 
Commission) and its applicants shall follow to ensure:
    (a) Compliance with NEPA, as amended (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and 
CEQ regulations for implementing the procedural provisions of NEPA (40 
CFR parts 1501 through 1508).
    (b) Compliance with other laws, regulations, and Executive Orders 
identified by NCPC as applicable to a particular application.


Sec.  601.2  Policies.

    Consistent with 40 CFR 1500.1 and 1500.2, it shall be the policy of 
the NCPC to:
    (a) Comply with the procedures and policies of NEPA and other 
related laws, regulations, and orders applicable to Commission actions.
    (b) Provide applicants sufficient guidance to ensure plans and 
projects comply with the rules of this part and other laws, 
regulations, and orders applicable to Commission actions.
    (c) Integrate NEPA into its decision-making process at the earliest 
possible stage.
    (d) Integrate the requirements of NEPA and other planning and 
environmental reviews required by law including, without limitation, 
the National Historic Preservation Act, 54 U.S.C. 306108 (NHPA), to 
ensure all such procedures run concurrently.
    (e) Use the NEPA process to identify and assess the reasonable 
alternatives to proposed actions that will avoid or minimize adverse 
effects on the quality of the human environment in the National Capital 
Region.

[[Page 45425]]

    (f) Use all practicable means to protect, restore, and enhance the 
quality of the human environment including the built and socioeconomic 
environments and historic properties within the National Capital 
Region.
    (g) Streamline the NEPA process and Environmental Impact Statements 
(EIS) to the maximum extent possible.
    (h) Use the NEPA process to assure orderly and effective NCPC 
decision-making and to foster meaningful public involvement in NCPC's 
decisions.


Sec.  601.3  Definitions.

    For purposes of this part, the following definitions shall apply:
    Administrative Record means a compilation of all materials (written 
and electronic) that were before the agency at the time it made its 
final decision. An Administrative Record documents an agency's 
decision-making process and the basis for the decision.
    Categorical Exclusion or CATEX means, as defined by 40 CFR 1508.4, 
a category of actions which do not individually or cumulatively have a 
significant effect on the human environment except under Extraordinary 
Circumstances and which have been found to have no such effect in 
procedures adopted by a Federal Agency (NCPC) in implementation of 
CEQ's regulations and for which, therefore, neither an Environmental 
Assessment (EA) nor an EIS is required.
    Central Area means the geographic area in the District of Columbia 
comprised of the Shaw School and Downtown Urban Renewal Areas or such 
other area as the District of Columbia and NCPC shall subsequently 
jointly determine.
    Chairman means the Chairman of the National Capital Planning 
Commission appointed by the President, pursuant to 40 U.S.C. 8711(c).
    Commemorative Works Act or CWA means the Federal law codified at 40 
U.S.C. 8901 et seq. that sets forth the requirements for the location 
and development of new memorials and monuments on land under the 
jurisdiction of the National Park Service (NPS) or the General Services 
Administration (GSA) in the District of Columbia and its Environs.
    Commission means the National Capital Planning Commission created 
by 40 U.S.C. 8711.
    Comprehensive Plan means The Comprehensive Plan for the National 
Capital: Federal Elements prepared and adopted by the Commission 
pursuant to 40 U.S.C. 8721(a).
    Cooperating Agency means, as defined in 40 CFR 1508.5, any Federal 
Agency other than a Lead Agency that has jurisdiction by law or special 
expertise with respect to a proposal (or reasonable alternative) for 
legislation or other major action significantly affecting the quality 
of the human environment; a state or local agency of similar 
qualifications; or when the effects are on a reservation, an Indian 
Tribe when agreed to by the Lead Agency.
    Cumulative impact means, as defined in 40 CFR 1508.7, the impact on 
the environment that results from the incremental impact of an action 
when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future 
actions regardless of what agency (Federal or Non-Federal) or person 
undertakes such other actions. Cumulative impacts can result from 
individually minor, but collectively significant, actions taking place 
over a period of time.
    Emergency Circumstances means a sudden and serious occurrence or 
situation requiring immediate attention to protect the lives and safety 
of the public and protect property and ecological resources and 
functions from imminent harm.
    Environmental Assessment or EA means, as defined in 40 CFR 1508.9, 
a concise document for which a Federal Agency is responsible that 
serves to briefly provide sufficient evidence and analysis for 
determining whether to prepare an EIS or a FONSI; aid an agency's 
compliance with NEPA when no EIS is necessary; facilitate preparation 
of an EIS when one is necessary; and includes a brief discussion of the 
need for the proposal, alternatives as required by section 102(2)(E) of 
NEPA, the environmental impacts of the proposed action and 
alternatives, and a listing of agencies and persons consulted.
    Environmental Document means, as set forth in 40 CFR 1508.10, an 
Environmental Assessment, and Environmental Impact Statement, and for 
purposes of these regulations, a Categorical Exclusion determination.
    Environmental Impact Statement or EIS means, as defined in 40 CFR 
1508.11, a detailed written statement as required by 42 U.S.C. 
4332(2)(C).
    Environs means the territory surrounding the District of Columbia 
included in the National Capital Region pursuant to 40 U.S.C. 
8702(a)(1).
    Executive Director means the Executive Director employed by the 
National Capital Planning Commission pursuant to 40 U.S.C. 8711(d).
    Executive Director's Recommendation or EDR means a concise written 
report and recommendation prepared by NCPC staff under the direction of 
NCPC's Executive Director regarding a proposed action that is 
transmitted to the Commission for its consideration.
    Extraordinary Circumstances means special circumstances that when 
present negate an agency's ability to categorically exclude a project 
and require an agency to undertake further NEPA review.
    Federal Agency means the executive agencies of the Federal 
government as defined in 5 U.S.C. 105.
    Finding of No Significant Impact or FONSI means, as defined at 40 
CFR 1508.13, a document prepared by NCPC or a Federal Agency applicant 
that briefly presents the reasons why an action, not otherwise excluded 
(40 CFR 1508.4), will not have a significant effect on the human 
environment and for which an EIS will not be prepared. It shall include 
the EA or a summary of it and shall note any other EAs or EISs related 
to it (40 CFR 1501.7(a)(5)). If the EA is included in the FONSI, the 
FONSI need not repeat any of the discussion in the EA but may include 
the EA by reference.
    Lead Agency means, as defined in 40 CFR 1508.16, the agency or 
agencies preparing or having primary responsibility for preparing an EA 
or an EIS.
    Memorandum of Agreement or MOA means for purposes of implementing 
the regulations in this part, a written agreement entered into between 
a Lead, Co-lead, Cooperating Agency, or a Non-Federal Agency to 
facilitate implementation of NEPA and preparation of the requisite 
environmental documentation. A MOA can be written at a programmatic 
level to apply to all projects involving NCPC and particular applicant 
or on a project-by-project basis.
    Mitigation means, as defined in 40 CFR 1508.20, avoiding an impact 
altogether by not taking a certain action or parts of an action; 
minimizing impacts by limiting the degree or magnitude of the action 
and its implementation; rectifying the impact by repairing, 
rehabilitating, or restoring the affected environment; reducing or 
eliminating the impact over time by preservation and maintenance 
operations during the life of the action; and compensating for the 
impact by replacing or providing substitute resources or environments.
    Monumental Core means the general area encompassed by the U.S. 
Capitol grounds, the National Mall, the Washington Monument grounds, 
the White House grounds, the Ellipse, West Potomac Park, East Potomac 
Park, the Southwest Federal Center, the Federal Triangle area, 
President's Park, the Northwest Rectangle, Arlington

[[Page 45426]]

Cemetery and the Pentagon area, and Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall.
    National Capital Planning Act means the July 1952 legislative 
enactment, codified at 40 U.S.C. 8701 et seq. that created the present 
day National Capital Planning Commission and conferred authority upon 
it to serve as the planning authority for the Federal government in the 
National Capital Region.
    National Capital Region means, as defined in 40 U.S.C. 8702(2), the 
District of Columbia; Montgomery and Prince Georges Counties in 
Maryland; Arlington Fairfax, Loudon, and Prince William Counties in 
Virginia; and all cities in Maryland or Virginia in the geographic area 
bounded by the outer boundaries of the combined area of the counties 
listed.
    Non-Federal Agency for purposes of the National Environmental 
Policy Act and the regulations in this part means those applicants 
outside the definition of Federal Agency that prepare plans for or 
undertake projects on land within the National Capital Region subject 
to NCPC's jurisdiction. Non-Federal Agencies include, without 
limitation, the Smithsonian Institution, the John F. Kennedy Center for 
the Performing Arts, the National Gallery of Art, the United States 
Institute of Peace, the Government of the District of Columbia, private 
parties undertaking development on Federal land, and the Maryland 
National Capital Parks and Planning Commission. In most instances, the 
Non-Federal Agency has legal jurisdiction over the project and special 
expertise relative to the project's components.
    Notice of Availability or NOA means a public notice or other means 
of public communication that announces the availability of an EA or an 
EIS for public review.
    Notice of Intent or NOI means, as defined in 40 CFR 1508.22, a 
notice published in the Federal Register that an EIS will be prepared 
and considered. The notice shall briefly describe the proposed action 
and possible alternatives; describe the agency's proposed Public 
Scoping process including whether, when, and where any Public Scoping 
meeting will be held; and state the name and address of a person within 
the agency who can answer questions about the proposed action and the 
EIS. For purposes of NCPC implementation of NEPA, NCPC may determine, 
at its sole discretion, to publish an NOI that an EA will be prepared 
and considered.
    Purpose and need as described in 40 CFR 1502.13 means the 
underlying purpose and need for agency action to which the agency is 
responding in proposing the alternatives including the proposed action.
    Programmatic NEPA Review means a broad or high level NEPA review 
that assesses the environmental impacts of proposed policies, plans or 
programs, or projects for which subsequent project or site-specific 
NEPA analysis will be conducted. A Programmatic NEPA Review utilizes a 
tiering approach.
    Record of Decision or ROD means a concise public record of an 
agency's decision in cases requiring an EIS that is prepared in 
accordance with 40 CFR 1505.2.
    Scope means, as defined in 40 U.S.C. 1508.25, the range of actions 
(connected, cumulative and similar); alternatives (no action, other 
reasonable courses of action; and Mitigation measures not included in 
the proposed action); and impacts (direct, indirect and cumulative) 
considered in an EIS or an EA. The process of defining and determining 
the scope of issues to be addressed in an EIS or EA with public 
involvement shall be referred to as Public Scoping. Internal scoping 
activities shall be referred to by the word scoping without 
capitalization.
    Submission Guidelines means the formally-adopted document which 
describes the application process and application requirements for 
projects requiring review by the Commission.
    Tiering means, as defined in 40 CFR 1508.28, an approach where 
Federal Agency applicants, NCPC on behalf of Non-Federal Agency 
applicants, or NCPC for its own projects initially consider the broad, 
general impacts of a proposed program, plan, policy, or large scale 
project--or at the early stage of a phased proposal--and then conduct 
subsequent narrower, decision focused reviews.

Subpart B--Lead and Cooperating Agencies


Sec.  601.4  Designation of Lead Agency.

    (a) A Federal Agency applicant shall serve as the Lead Agency and 
prepare an EA or an EIS for:
    (1) An application that requires Commission approval; and
    (2) An application for action on a master plan that includes future 
projects that require Commission approval; provided that:
    (i) The applicant intends to submit individual projects covered by 
the master plan to the Commission within five years of the date of 
Commission action on the master plan; and
    (ii) The applicant intends to use the master plan EA or EIS to 
satisfy its NEPA obligation for specific projects referenced in the 
master plan.
    (b) NCPC shall serve as Lead Agency and prepare an EA or an EIS 
for:
    (1) An application submitted by a Non-Federal Agency that requires 
Commission approval;
    (2) An application submitted by a Non-Federal Agency for action on 
a master plan that includes future projects that require Commission 
approval; provided that:
    (i) The Non-Federal Agency applicant intends to submit individual 
projects covered by the master plan to the Commission within five years 
of the date of Commission action on the master plan; and
    (ii) The Non-Federal Agency applicant intends to use the master 
plan EA or EIS to satisfy its NEPA obligation for a specific project 
referenced in the master plan; and
    (3) An application for approval of land acquisitions undertaken 
pursuant to 40 U.S.C. 8731-8732.


Sec.  601.5  Lead Agency obligations.

    (a) The obligations of a Federal Agency applicant designated as the 
Lead Agency in accordance with Sec.  601.4(a) shall include, without 
limitation, the following:
    (1) Act as Lead Agency as defined in 40 CFR 1501.5 for the NEPA 
process.
    (2) Integrate other environmental reviews and other applicable 
regulatory requirements to include, without limitation, Section 106 of 
the NHPA.
    (3) Allow NCPC, to participate as a Co-lead or Cooperating Agency, 
as appropriate, and consult with Commission staff as early as possible 
in the planning process to obtain guidance with respect to the goals, 
objectives, standards, purpose, need, and alternatives for the NEPA 
analysis.
    (4) Invite affected Federal, state, regional and local agencies to 
participate as a Cooperating Agency in the NEPA process.
    (5) Consult with the affected agencies as early as possible in the 
planning process to obtain guidance on the goals, objectives, 
standards, purpose, need, and alternatives for the NEPA analysis.
    (6) Work with Cooperating Agencies and stakeholders in the 
following manner:
    (i) Keep them informed on the project schedule and substantive 
matters; and
    (ii) Allow them an opportunity to review and comment within 
reasonable time frames on, without limitation, Public Scoping notices; 
technical reports; public materials (including responses to comments 
received from the public); potential Mitigation measures; the draft EA 
or EIS; and the draft FONSI or ROD.

[[Page 45427]]

    (7) Prepare the appropriate Environmental Document consistent with 
the applicant's NEPA regulations, the requirements of this part, and 
CEQ regulations. If the Lead Agency applies a CATEX and NCPC as 
Cooperating Agency does not have a corresponding CATEX that it can 
apply, the Lead Agency shall prepare an EA to satisfy NCPC's NEPA 
requirement.
    (8) Determine in its Environmental Document whether an action will 
have an adverse environmental impact or would limit the choice of 
reasonable alternatives under 40 CFR 1505.1(e) and take appropriate 
action to ensure that the objectives and procedures of NEPA are 
achieved.
    (9) Prepare, make available for public review, and issue a FONSI or 
ROD.
    (10) Ensure that the draft and final EIS comply with the 
requirements of 40 CFR 1506.5(c) and include a disclosure statement 
executed by any contractor (or subcontractor) under contract to prepare 
the EIS document and that the disclosure appears as an appendix to the 
EIS.
    (11) Compile, maintain, and produce the Administrative Record.
    (12) Provide periodic reports on implementation of Mitigation 
measures to NCPC and other Cooperating Parties consistent with a 
schedule established in the Environmental Document. All such reports 
shall be posted on NCPC's Web site.
    (13) For an application that has yet to obtain final Commission 
approval, re-evaluate and update Environmental Documents that are five 
or more years old as measured from the time of their adoption when 
either or both of the following criteria apply:
    (i) There are substantial changes to the proposed action that are 
relevant to environmental concerns.
    (ii) There are significant new circumstances or information that 
are relevant to environmental concerns and have a bearing on the 
proposed action or its impacts.
    (14) Consult with NCPC on the outcome of the re-evaluation of its 
Environmental Document; provided that if NCPC disagrees with the Lead 
Agency's conclusion on the need to update its Environmental Document, 
NCPC may, at its sole discretion, either prepare its own Environmental 
Document or decline to consider the application.
    (b) When NCPC serves as Lead Agency in accordance with Sec.  
601.4(b), in addition to the obligations listed in paragraphs (a)(1) 
through (14) of this section, NCPC shall:
    (1) Require Non-Federal Agency applicants other than the District 
of Columbia and the Maryland National Capital Parks and Planning 
Commission to enter into a MOA with NCPC. In the MOA, and in subsequent 
implementation thereof, the Non-Federal Agency shall commit to 
providing all necessary assistance to facilitate and ensure NCPC's 
compliance with its NEPA obligation.
    (2) The MOA may be prepared as a programmatic MOA that addresses a 
uniform approach for the treatment of all applications from a 
particular Non-Federal Agency applicant or address a specific Non-
Federal Agency application. The request to enter into a project 
specific MOA shall be made after a determination is made as to the 
inability to utilize a CATEX.
    (3) A MOA with a Non-Federal Agency shall specify, without 
limitation, roles and responsibilities; project information necessary 
to prepare the proper Environmental Document; project timelines and 
submission schedules; the submission of periodic reports on 
implementation of Mitigation measures, principal contacts and contact 
information; and a mechanism for resolving disputes.
    (4) Upon adoption of the MOA, NCPC shall publish the MOA in the 
Federal Register and post it on NCPC's Web site.


Sec.  601.6  Resolving disputes over Lead Agency status.

    (a) In the event of a dispute with a Federal Agency applicant over 
Co-Lead Agency status, the parties shall use their best efforts to 
cooperatively resolve disputes at the working levels of their 
respective agencies and, if necessary, by elevating such disputes 
within their respective agencies.
    (b) If internal resolution at higher agency levels proves 
unsuccessful, at NCPC's sole discretion, one of the following actions 
shall be pursued: The parties shall request CEQ's determination on 
which agency shall serve as Lead, or NCPC shall prepare its own 
Environmental Document, or NCPC shall decline to take action on the 
underlying application.
    (c) Disputes other than those relating to the designation of Lead 
Agency status or Cooperating Agency status as described in Sec.  
601.7(b), shall be governed by the requirements of subpart G of this 
part.


Sec.  601.7  Cooperating Agencies.

    (a) When a Federal Agency applicant serves as the Lead Agency, NCPC 
shall act as a Cooperating Agency. As a Cooperating Agency, NCPC shall, 
without limitation, undertake the following:
    (1) Act as a Cooperating Agency as described in 40 CFR 1501.6.
    (2) Assist in the preparation of and sign a MOA with terms 
agreeable to NCPC if requested by the Lead Agency. At the Lead Agency's 
discretion, the MOA may be prepared as a programmatic MOA that 
addresses a uniform approach for the treatment of all applications 
where NCPC serves as a Cooperating Agency or address a specific 
application. The request to enter into a project specific MOA shall be 
made after a determination is made by the Lead Agency on the inability 
to utilize a CATEX.
    (3) Participate in the NEPA process by providing comprehensive, 
timely reviews of and comments on key NEPA materials including, without 
limitation, Public Scoping notices; technical reports; documents 
(including responses to comments received from the public); the draft 
and final EA or EIS; and the Draft FONSI or ROD.
    (4) Supply available data, assessments, and other information that 
may be helpful in the preparation of the Environmental Document or the 
Administrative Record in a timely manner.
    (5) Make an independent evaluation of the Federal Agency 
applicant's Environmental Document and take responsibility for the 
scope and contents of the EIS or EA when it is sufficient as required 
by 40 CFR 1506.5.
    (6) Prepare and, following Commission final approval of an 
application, sign a FONSI or ROD. Alternatively, if NCPC concurs with 
the contents of a Federal Agency's FONSI or ROD, NCPC may co-sign the 
Federal Agency's document following the Commission's final approval of 
an application if co-signing is consistent with the Federal Agency's 
NEPA regulations.
    (7) Provide documentation requested and needed by the Lead Agency 
for the Administrative Record.
    (b) In the event a Federal Agency applicant fails to allow NCPC to 
participate in a meaningful manner as a Cooperating Agency, the parties 
shall agree to use their best efforts to cooperatively resolve the 
issue at the working levels of their respective agencies, and, if 
necessary, by elevating the issue within their respective agencies. If 
internal resolution at higher agency levels is unsuccessful, the 
parties may agree to seek mediation. Alternatively, NCPC may prepare 
its own Environmental Document either as a stand-alone document or a 
supplement to the Federal Agency applicant's Environmental Document or

[[Page 45428]]

take no action on the underlying application.

Subpart C--NEPA Submission Schedules


Sec.  601.8  NEPA submission schedule for applications governed by the 
National Capital Planning Act.

    (a) NEPA compliance requirements. Federal Agency applicants, and 
NCPC for non-Federal Agency applications, shall comply with NEPA for 
the following types of projects:
    (1) Projects requiring Commission approval; and
    (2) Master plans requiring Commission action with future projects 
requiring subsequent Commission approval; provided that:
    (i) The applicant intends to submit individual projects depicted in 
the master plan to the Commission within five years of the date of 
Commission action on the master plan; and
    (ii) The applicant intends to use the master plan EA or EIS to 
satisfy its NEPA obligation for specific projects referenced in the 
master plan.
    (b) Timing of NEPA compliance. When Federal Agency and Non-Federal 
Agency applicants submit projects of the type described in paragraph 
(a) of this section, the Federal Agency applicant or NCPC for a Non-
Federal agency application shall submit the requisite Environmental 
Documentation timed to coincide with the Commission's review stages as 
set forth in paragraphs (c) through (f) of this section.
    (c) Concept review. The NEPA Public Scoping process shall have been 
initiated by the Federal Agency applicant or NCPC for a Non-Federal 
Agency application before the applicant submits an application for 
concept review. Alternatively, if the Federal Agency applicant or NCPC 
is contemplating use of a CATEX, the initiation of the Public Scoping 
process may be deferred until the final decision on use of a CATEX is 
made. Any NEPA information available at the time of concept review 
shall be submitted by the Federal Agency applicant or NCPC for a Non-
Federal Agency application to facilitate effective Commission concept 
review.
    (d) Preliminary review. A Draft Environmental Document shall be 
issued or published before the applicant submits an application for 
preliminary review. The NEPA information shall be provided to the 
Commission to facilitate the Commission's preliminary review and the 
provision of meaningful Commission comments and direction.
    (e) Final review. (1) At the time a Non-Federal Agency submits an 
application for final approval, the determination (FONSI or ROD) 
resulting from the Environmental Document shall be submitted by NCPC in 
a form consistent with the rules of this part. At the time a Federal 
Agency applicant submits an application to the Commission for final 
review, the Federal Agency applicant shall submit a determination 
(FONSI or ROD) in a form consistent with the applicant's NEPA 
regulations. As a Cooperating Agency, NCPC may co-sign the Federal 
Agency's FONSI or ROD following final Commission approval if co-signing 
is consistent with the Federal Agency's NEPA regulations. 
Alternatively, NCPC may prepare and sign its own independent document 
in accordance with the requirements of Sec. Sec.  601.16(a) or 
601.25(a) through (c).
    (2) If at the time of final review, the Commission denies a Federal 
Agency applicant's project and requests changes thereto, the Federal 
Agency applicant shall proceed in a manner consistent with applicable 
law. The Federal Agency applicant may pursue, among others, the option 
of revising the project in a manner responsive to the Commission's 
comments. If the Federal Agency pursues this option, it shall review 
and consider the need for possible changes to its Environmental 
Document and its FONSI or ROD. Upon resubmission of a revised 
application for final review, the applicant shall submit a revised 
Environmental Document and a revised FONSI or ROD if in its judgement 
revised documents are necessary. If NCPC and the applicant disagree 
regarding the need for a revised Environmental Document and FONSI or 
ROD, the parties shall work together to resolve their differences. The 
final decision regarding the need for a revised Environmental Document 
and a revised FONSI or ROD shall be made by the Commission's Executive 
Committee.
    (f) Deviations from the submission schedule for Emergency 
Circumstances. (1) This paragraph (f) applies when the following three 
conditions exist: NCPC is the Lead Agency; Emergency Circumstances 
exist; and an Extraordinary Circumstance as set forth in Sec.  601.11 
is present that precludes use of a CATEX.
    (2) When the three conditions described above exist, NCPC shall 
undertake one of the following actions:
    (i) When Emergency Circumstances render it necessary to take an 
action that requires an EA, the Executive Director shall prepare a 
concise, focused EA consistent with CEQ guidance. At the earliest 
opportunity, the Commission shall grant approval for the EA.
    (ii) Where Emergency Circumstances make it necessary for the 
Commission to take an action with significant environmental impact 
without observing the provisions of these regulations, NCPC shall 
consult with CEQ about alternative arrangements. NCPC will limit such 
arrangements to actions necessary to control the immediate impacts of 
the emergency. Other actions remain subject to NEPA review.


Sec.  601.9  NEPA submission schedule for applications governed by the 
Commemorative Works Act.

    (a) Timing of NEPA compliance. When, pursuant to the Commemorative 
Works Act, the National Park Service (NPS) or the General Services 
Administration (GSA) submits an application to the Commission for 
approval of a site and design for a commemorative work, NPS or GSA 
shall be required to comply with NEPA and submit the NEPA documentation 
timed to coincide with the Commission's review stages as set forth in 
paragraphs (b) through (e) of this section.
    (b) Concept site review. (1) The NEPA Scoping Process shall have 
been initiated by NPS or GSA before the appropriate agency submits an 
application to the Commission for concept site review. Available NEPA 
documentation for all concept sites shall be included in the 
application to facilitate effective Commission concept review.
    (2) The Commission shall provide comments to NPS or GSA on the 
multiple sites to assist the applicant in selecting a preferred site.
    (c) Concept design review for preferred sites. (1) The NEPA Public 
Scoping Process shall have been initiated before NPS or GSA submits an 
application to the Commission for concept design review. Available NEPA 
documentation shall be included in the application to facilitate 
effective Commission concept review.
    (2) The Commission shall provide comments to NPS or GSA on the 
preferred site(s) and the concept designs for each site to facilitate 
selection of a preferred site and refinement of the memorial design for 
that site. The Commission may establish guidelines for the applicant to 
follow in preparing its preliminary and final commemorative work design 
to avoid, minimize or mitigate environmental impacts including adverse 
effects on historic properties. If the Commission imposes guidelines to 
avoid, minimize or mitigate adverse impacts, the applicant shall 
address the guidelines in its Environmental Document.
    (d) Preliminary site and design review. (1) NPS or GSA shall have 
issued or

[[Page 45429]]

published its Draft Environmental Document for the site selection 
process and the memorial design and shall have initiated the requisite 
public comment period before the applicant submits an application for 
preliminary site and design approval. The NEPA information shall be 
provided to the Commission to facilitate the Commission's preliminary 
review and the provision of meaningful Commission comments and 
directions.
    (2) The Commission shall take an action on the preliminary site and 
design and provide comments to the applicant on the preliminary design 
to assist the applicant's preparation of a final design.
    (e) Final site and design review. (1) At the time NPS or GSA 
submits an application to the Commission for final site and design 
review, the determination (FONSI or ROD) resulting from the 
Environmental Document shall be submitted by the applicant in a form 
consistent with its NEPA regulations. As a Cooperating Agency, NCPC may 
co-sign the applicant's FONSI or ROD following final Commission 
approval if co-signing is consistent with the applicant's NEPA 
regulations. Alternatively, NCPC may prepare and sign its own 
independent document in accordance with the requirements of Sec.  
601.16(a) or Sec.  601.25(a) through (c).
    (2) If at the time of final review, the Commission denies the NPS 
or GSA project and requests changes thereto, the applicant shall 
proceed in a manner consistent with applicable law. The Federal Agency 
applicant may pursue, among others, the option of revising the project 
in a manner responsive to the Commission's comments. If the Federal 
Agency pursues this option, it shall review and consider the need for 
possible changes to its Environmental Document and its FONSI or ROD. 
Upon resubmission of a revised application for final review, the 
applicant shall submit a revised Environmental Document and a revised 
FONSI or ROD if in its judgement revised documents are necessary. If 
NCPC and the applicant disagree regarding the need for a revised 
Environmental Document and FONSI or ROD, the parties shall work 
together to resolve their differences. The final decision regarding the 
need for a revised Environmental Document and a revised FONSI or ROD 
shall be made by the Commission's Executive Committee.

Subpart D--Initiating the NEPA Process


Sec.  601.10  Characteristics of Commission actions eligible for a 
Categorical Exclusion.

    (a) A Categorical Exclusion is a type of action that does not 
individually or cumulatively have a significant effect on the human 
environment and which has been found to have no such effect by NCPC.
    (b) Actions that generally qualify for application of a Categorical 
Exclusion and do not require either an EA or an EIS exhibit the 
following characteristics:
    (1) Minimal or no effect on the human environment;
    (2) No significant change to existing environmental conditions;
    (3) No significant cumulative environmental impacts; and
    (4) Similarity to actions previously assessed in an EA concluding 
in a FONSI and monitored to confirm the FONSI.


Sec.  601.11  Extraordinary Circumstances.

    (a) Before applying a CATEX listed in Sec.  601.12, the Executive 
Director shall determine if a project or plan requires additional 
environmental review or analysis due to the presence of Extraordinary 
Circumstances. If any of the Extraordinary Circumstances listed in 
paragraphs (b)(1) through (11) of this section are present, the 
Executive Director shall not apply a CATEX and ensure that the proper 
Environmental Document (EA or EIS) shall be prepared and made available 
to the Commission before the Commission takes action on the matter.
    (b) Extraordinary Circumstances that negate the application of a 
CATEX include:
    (1) A reasonable likelihood of significant impact on public health 
or safety.
    (2) A reasonable likelihood of significant environmental impacts on 
sensitive resources unless the impacts have been or will be avoided, 
minimized, or mitigated to non-significant levels through another 
process to include, without limitation, Section 106 of the NHPA. 
Environmentally sensitive resources include without limitation:
    (i) Proposed federally listed, threatened or endangered species or 
their designated critical habitats.
    (ii) Properties listed or eligible for listing on the National 
Register of Historic Places.
    (iii) Areas having special designation or recognition based on 
Federal law or an Executive Order, to include without limitation, 
National Historic Landmarks, floodplains, wetlands, and National Parks.
    (iv) Cultural, scientific or historic resources.
    (3) A reasonable likelihood of effects on the environment that are 
risky, highly uncertain, or unique.
    (4) A reasonable likelihood of violating an Executive Order, or 
Federal, state or local law or requirements imposed for the protection 
of the environment.
    (5) A reasonable likelihood of causing a significant increase in 
surface transportation congestion, disruption of mass transit, and 
interference with pedestrian and bicycle movements.
    (6) A reasonable likelihood of significantly degrading air quality 
or violating air quality control standards under the Clean Air Act (42 
U.S.C. 7401-7671q).
    (7) A reasonable likelihood of significantly impacting water 
quality, public water supply systems, or state or local water quality 
control standards under the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.) 
and the Safe Drinking Act (42 U.S.C. 300f).
    (8) A reasonable likelihood of a disproportionately high and 
adverse effect on low income and minority populations.
    (9) A reasonable likelihood of degrading existing unsatisfactory 
environmental conditions.
    (10) A reasonable likelihood of establishing a precedent for future 
action or making a decision in principle about future actions with 
potentially significant environmental effects.
    (11) Any other circumstance that makes the action sufficiently 
unique in its potential impacts on the human environment that further 
environmental analysis and review is appropriate.
    (c) The Executive Director shall include in his/her EDR, or the 
documentation of a delegated action, his/her decision to apply a 
Categorical Exclusion including consideration of possible Extraordinary 
Circumstances or not apply a Categorical Exclusion because of 
Extraordinary Circumstances.


Sec.  601.12  National Capital Planning Commission Categorical 
Exclusions.

    (a) Commission actions that may be categorically excluded and 
normally do not require either an EA or an EIS are listed in paragraphs 
(a)(1) through (13) of this section. An action not specifically 
included in the list is not eligible for a Categorical Exclusion even 
if it appears to meet the general criteria listed in Sec.  601.10(b).
    (1) Approval of the installation or restoration of onsite primary 
or secondary electrical distribution systems including minor solar 
panel arrays.
    (2) Approval of the installation or restoration of minor site 
elements, such as but not limited to identification signs, sidewalks, 
patios, fences, curbs, retaining walls, landscaping, and trail or 
stream improvements. Additional features include water distribution 
lines

[[Page 45430]]

and sewer lines which involve work that is essentially replacement in 
kind.
    (3) Approval of the installation or restoration of minor building 
elements, such as, but not limited to windows, doors, roofs, building 
signs, and rooftop equipment and green roofs.
    (4) Adoption of a Federal Element of the Comprehensive Plan or 
amendment thereto or broad based policy or feasibility plans prepared 
and adopted by the Commission in response to the Comprehensive Plan.
    (5) Approval of the installation of communication antennae on 
Federal buildings and co-location of communication antennae on Federal 
property consistent with GSA Bulletin FMR D-242, Placement of 
Commercial Antennas on Federal Property.
    (6) Approval of Federal and District government agency proposals 
for new construction, building expansion, or improvements to existing 
facilities, when all of the following apply:
    (i) The new structure and proposed use are in compliance with local 
planning and zoning and any applicable District of Columbia, state, or 
Federal requirements.
    (ii) The site and the scale of construction are consistent with 
those of existing adjacent or nearby buildings.
    (iii) The proposed use will not substantially increase the number 
of motor vehicles in the vicinity of the facility.
    (iv) There is little to no evidence of unresolved resource 
conflicts or community controversy related to environmental concerns or 
other environmental issues.
    (7) Approval of transfers of jurisdiction pursuant to 40 U.S.C. 
8124 that are not anticipated to result in changes in land-use and that 
have no potential for environmental impact.
    (8) Approval of a minor modification to a General Development Plan 
applicable to lands acquired pursuant to the Capper-Cramton Act, 46 
Stat. 482 (1930), as amended, when non-significant environmental 
impacts are anticipated.
    (9) Reorganization of NCPC.
    (10) Personnel actions, including, but not limited to, 
investigations; performance reviews; award of personal service 
contracts, promotions and awards; reductions in force, reassignments 
and relocations; and employee supervision and training.
    (11) Legal activities including, but not limited to, legal advice 
and opinions; litigation or other methods of dispute resolution; and 
procurement of outside legal services.
    (12) Procurement of goods and services, transactions, and other 
types of activities related to the routine and continuing 
administration, management, maintenance and operations of the 
Commission or its facilities.
    (13) Adoption and issuance of rules, directives, official policies, 
guidelines, and publications or recommendations of an educational, 
financial, informational, legal, technical or procedural nature.
    (b) The Executive Director shall include in his/her EDR, or the 
documentation of a delegated action, his/her decision to apply a 
Categorical Exclusion and the rationale for this decision.

Subpart E--Environmental Assessments


Sec.  601.13  Characteristics of Commission actions eligible for an 
Environmental Assessment.

    (a) An EA is a concise document with sufficient information and 
analysis to enable the Executive Director to determine whether to issue 
a FONSI or prepare an EIS.
    (b) Commission actions that generally require an EA exhibit the 
following characteristics:
    (1) Minor but likely insignificant degradation of environmental 
quality;
    (2) Minor but likely insignificant cumulative impact on 
environmental quality; and
    (3) Minor but likely insignificant impact on protected resources.


Sec.  601.14  Commission actions generally eligible for an 
Environmental Assessment.

    Commission actions that typically require preparation of an EA 
include without limitation:
    (a) Approval of final plans for Federal public buildings in the 
District of Columbia, and the provisions for open space in and around 
the same, pursuant to 40 U.S.C. 8722(d) and D.C. Code 2-1004(c).
    (b) Approval of final plans for District of Columbia public 
buildings and the open space around them within the Central Area 
pursuant to 40 U.S.C. 8722(e) and D.C. Code 2-1004(d).
    (c) Recommendations to a Federal or District of Columbia agency on 
any master plan or master plan modification submitted to the Commission 
that include proposed future projects that require Commission approval 
pursuant to 40 U.S.C. 8722(d)-(e) and D.C. Code 2-1004(c)-(d) within a 
five-year timeframe.
    (d) Approval of a final site and design for a commemorative work 
authorized under the Commemorative Works Act pursuant to 40 U.S.C. 
8905.
    (e) Approval of transfers of jurisdiction over properties within 
the District of Columbia owned by the United States or the District 
among or between Federal and District authorities, pursuant to 40 
U.S.C. 8124, unless such transfers met the criteria of Sec.  
601.12(a)(7).


Sec.  601.15  Process for preparing an Environmental Assessment.

    An EA prepared by NCPC as the Lead Agency for a project requiring 
Commission approval shall comply with the following requirements:
    (a) The EA shall include, without limitation, a brief discussion of 
the proposed action; the purpose and need for the proposed action; the 
environmental impacts of the proposed action; the environmental impacts 
of the alternatives considered; Mitigation measures, if necessary; and 
a list of agencies and persons consulted in preparation of the 
assessment.
    (b) The NCPC shall involve to the extent practicable applicants; 
Federal and District of Columbia agencies; the public; and stakeholders 
in the preparation of an EA.
    (c) The NCPC, at the sole discretion of the Executive Director, may 
undertake Public Scoping for an action requiring an EA. The Public 
Scoping shall generally commence after issuance of a public notice in a 
media source with widespread circulation and the NCPC Web site of 
NCPC's intent to prepare an EA. The notice shall include the date, time 
and location of the Public Scoping meeting.
    (d) The NCPC may solicit public review and comment of a Draft EA. 
The public comment period generally shall be thirty (30) calendar days. 
The public comment period shall begin when the Executive Director 
announces the availability of the Draft EA on the NCPC Web site 
(www.ncpc.gov). The NCPC, at its sole discretion, may decline to 
circulate a draft EA for non-controversial projects.


Sec.  601.16  Finding of No Significant Impact.

    (a) If NCPC is the Lead Agency and the final EA supports a FONSI, 
NCPC shall prepare and execute a FONSI. The FONSI shall be prepared 
following closure of the discretionary public comment period on a Draft 
EA, or if no public comment period is deemed necessary, at the 
conclusion of the preparation of an EA. The FONSI shall briefly state 
the reasons why the proposed action will not have a significant effect 
on the environment and include the EA or a summary thereof, any 
Mitigation commitments, and a schedule for implementing the Mitigation 
commitments. The FONSI shall be signed following the

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Commission final approval of the applicant's project.
    (b) If NCPC is not the Lead Agency, it shall evaluate the adequacy 
of the Lead Agency's FONSI. If NCPC determines the FONSI to be 
adequate, NCPC shall proceed as follows. If consistent with the Federal 
Agency's NEPA regulations, NCPC may co-sign the Lead Agency's FONSI 
following the Commission final approval of the application. 
Alternatively, NCPC may prepare and execute its own FONSI consistent 
with the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section and sign the 
FONSI following the Commission's final approval of the project.
    (c) In certain limited circumstances described in 40 CFR 
1501.4(e)(2)(i) and (ii), a FONSI prepared by NCPC shall be available 
for public review for thirty (30) days before NCPC makes it final 
determination. NCPC shall also publish all FONSIs on its Web site seven 
(7) calendar days before the Commission takes action on the underlying 
application.
    (d) If the Commission determines a Lead Agency's EA does not 
support a FONSI, either the Lead Agency shall prepare an EIS, or the 
Commission shall not approve or consider further the underlying 
application.


Sec.  601.17  Supplemental Environmental Assessments.

    (a) The NCPC shall prepare a supplemental EA if five or more years 
have elapsed since adoption of the EA and:
    (1) There are substantial changes to the proposed action that are 
relevant to environmental concerns; or
    (2) There are significant new circumstances or information that are 
relevant to environmental concerns and have a bearing on the proposed 
action or its impacts.
    (b) The NCPC may supplement a Draft or Final EA at any time to 
further the purposes of NEPA.
    (c) The NCPC shall prepare, circulate, and file a supplement to a 
Draft or Final EA, and adopt a FONSI in accordance with the 
requirements of Sec. Sec.  601.15 and 601.16. If NCPC is not the Lead 
Agency, it shall proceed as outlined in Sec.  601.16(b) and (c).

Subpart F--Environmental Impact Statements


Sec.  601.18  Requirement for and timing of an Environmental Impact 
Statement.

    Prior to the Commission's approval of a major Federal action 
significantly affecting the quality of the human environment, the 
Executive Director shall prepare an EIS for a Non-Federal Agency 
application.


Sec.  601.19  Context, intensity, and significance of impacts.

    (a) As required by 40 CFR 1508.27(a) and (b), NCPC's determination 
of whether an EIS is required and whether impacts are significant shall 
be made with consideration to the context and intensity of the impacts 
associated with a proposed action.
    (b) The significance of an action is determined in the context of 
its effects on society as a whole, the National Capital Region and its 
Environs, the particular interests affected, and the specific locality 
or area within which the proposed action is located. The context will 
vary from project to project and will be based on the type, attributes, 
and characteristics of a particular proposal.
    (c) The significance of an action is also determined based on the 
severity of impacts imposed by the proposal. Severity shall be 
determined based on an evaluation of a proposal in the manner outlined 
in 40 CFR 1508.27(b)(1) through (10). The evaluation shall also be 
informed by the relevant policies of ``The Comprehensive Plan for the 
National Capital: Federal Elements'' and other applicable Commission 
plans and programs. Proposed actions that conflict with or delay 
achievement of the goals and objectives of Commission plans and 
programs are generally more likely to be found to have significant 
impacts than proposals that are consistent with Commission plans and 
programs.
    (d) Proposed actions shall also be deemed significant and require 
an EIS if they exhibit at least one of the following characteristics:
    (1) The proposed action results in a substantial change to the 
Monumental Core.
    (2) The proposed action causes substantial alteration to the 
important historical, cultural, and natural features of the National 
Capital and its Environs.
    (3) The proposed action is likely to be controversial because of 
its impacts on the human environment.


Sec.  601.20  Streamlining Environmental Impact Statements.

    The NCPC as Lead Agency shall use all available techniques to 
minimize the length of an EIS. Such techniques include, without 
limitation, drafting an EIS in clear, concise language; preparing an 
analytic vs. encyclopedic EIS; reducing emphasis on background 
information; using the scoping process to emphasize significant issues 
and de-emphasize non-significant issues; incorporating relevant 
information by reference; using a programmatic EIS and tiering to 
eliminate duplication in subsequent EISs; and following the format 
guidelines of Sec.  601.22.


Sec.  601.21  Programmatic Environmental Impact Statements and tiering.

    (a) The NCPC shall prepare a programmatic Environmental Document 
(Programmatic EA or PEA or Programmatic EIS or PEIS) to assess the 
impacts of proposed projects and plans when there is uncertainty 
regarding the timing, location and environmental impacts of subsequent 
implementing actions. At the time NCPC undertakes a site or project 
specific action within the parameters of the PEA or PEIS, NCPC shall 
tier its Environmental Document by summarizing information in the PEIS 
or PEA, as applicable, and concentrate on the issues applicable to the 
specific action.
    (b) A PEIS or PEA prepared by NCPC shall be governed by the CEQ 
regulations and the rules of this part.


Sec.  601.22  Contents of an Environmental Impact Statement.

    (a) When NCPC serves as Lead Agency for an EIS, the following 
information shall be included in the EIS:
    (1) A cover sheet. The cover sheet shall be one-page and include a 
list of responsible and Cooperating Agencies; the title of the proposed 
action that is the subject of the EIS; the name, address, and telephone 
number of the NCPC point of contact; the designation as to whether the 
statement is draft, final, or draft or final supplement; a one 
paragraph abstract of the EIS; and the date by which comments must be 
received.
    (2) A summary. The summary shall accurately summarize the 
information presented in the EIS. The summary shall focus on the main 
conclusions, areas of controversy, and the issues to be resolved.
    (3) A table of contents. The table of contents shall allow a reader 
to quickly locate subject matter in the EIS--either by topic area and/
or alternatives analyzed.
    (4) The purpose and need. A statement of the purpose of and need 
for the action briefly stating the underlying purpose and need to which 
the agency is responding.
    (5) The identification of alternatives including the proposed 
action. This section shall provide a brief description and supporting 
documentation for all alternatives including the proposed action; the 
no action alternative; all reasonable alternatives including those not 
within the jurisdiction of the agency; alternatives considered but 
eliminated and the reason for their

[[Page 45432]]

elimination; the agency's preferred alternative, if one exists; the 
environmentally preferred alternative; and Mitigation measures not 
already included in the proposed action.
    (6) The identification of the affected environment. This section 
shall provide a succinct description of the environment to be affected 
by the proposed action and the alternatives considered. This section 
shall include, if applicable, other activities in the area affected by 
or related to the proposed action.
    (7) The identification of environmental consequences. This section 
shall focus on the environmental impacts of the alternatives including 
the proposed action, any adverse environmental effects which cannot be 
avoided should the proposal be implemented, the relationship between 
short-term uses of the environment and the maintenance and enhancement 
of long-term productivity, and any irreversible commitments of 
resources which would be involved if the proposal is implemented. The 
impacts shall be discussed in terms of direct, indirect and cumulative 
effects and their significance, as well as any appropriate means to 
mitigate adverse impacts. The discussion shall also include issues and 
impact topics considered but dismissed to reveal non-impacted 
resources. Resource areas and issues requiring consideration shall 
include those identified in the scoping process, and, without 
limitation, the following:
    (i) Possible conflicts between the proposed action and the land use 
plans, policies, or controls (local, state, or Indian tribe) for the 
area concerned.
    (ii) Natural and biological resources including topography, 
hydrology, soils, flora, fauna, floodplains, wetlands, and endangered 
species.
    (iii) Air quality.
    (iv) Noise.
    (v) Water resources including wastewater treatment and storm water 
management.
    (vi) Utilities including energy requirements and conservation.
    (vii) Solid waste and hazardous waste generation/removal.
    (viii) Community facilities.
    (ix) Housing.
    (x) Transportation network.
    (xi) Socio-cultural and economic environments.
    (xii) Environmental Justice and the requirements of Executive Order 
12898 (Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority 
Populations).
    (xiii) Urban quality and design of the built environment including 
visual resources and aesthetics.
    (xiv) Historic and cultural resources to include documentation of 
the results of the Section 106 Consultation process.
    (xv) Public health and safety.
    (8) A list of preparers. This list shall include all pertinent 
organizations, agencies, individuals, and government representatives 
primarily responsible for the preparation of the EIS and their 
qualifications.
    (9) An index. The index shall be structured to reasonably assist 
the reader of the Draft or Final EIS in identifying and locating major 
topic areas or elements of the EIS information. The level of detail of 
the index shall provide sufficient focus on areas of interest to any 
reader not just the most important topics.
    (10) An appendix. The appendix shall consist of material prepared 
in connection with an EIS (as distinct from material which is 
incorporated by reference) and material which substantiates any 
analysis fundamental to the EIS. The material in the appendix shall be 
analytical and relevant to the decision to be made. The appendix shall 
be posted on NCPC's Web site.
    (b) [Reserved]


Sec.  601.23  The Environmental Impact Statement process.

    (a) The NCPC shall involve the applicant, Federal and District of 
Columbia agencies, members of the public and stakeholders in the 
preparation of an EIS. Public participation shall be required as part 
of the Public Scoping process and review of the Draft EIS. The NCPC 
shall also consult with agencies having jurisdiction by law or 
expertise. Agencies with ``jurisdiction by law'' are those with 
ultimate jurisdiction over a project and whose assistance may be 
required on certain issues and those with other kinds of regulatory or 
advisory authority with respect to the action or its effects on 
particular environmental resources.
    (b) To determine the scope of an EIS through a Public Scoping 
process, NCPC shall proceed as follows:
    (1) Disseminate a NOI in accordance with 40 CFR 1501.7 and 1506.6.
    (2) Publish a NOI in the Federal Register and on NCPC's Web site 
which shall begin the Public Scoping process.
    (3) Include the date, time, and location of a Public Scoping 
meeting in the NOI. The public meeting shall be announced at least 
thirty (30) calendar days in advance of its scheduled date.
    (4) Hold Public Scoping meeting(s) in facilities that are 
accessible to the disabled; include translators if requested in 
advance; include signers or interpreters for the hearing impaired if 
requested in advance; and allow special arrangements for consultation 
with affected Indian tribes or other Native American groups who have 
environmental concerns that cannot be shared in a public forum.
    (5) Consider all comments received during the announced comment 
period regarding the analysis of alternatives, the affected 
environment, and identification of potential impacts.
    (6) Apply the provisions of this section to a Supplemental EIS if 
the Executive Director of NCPC, in his/her sole discretion, determines 
a Public Scoping process is required for a Supplemental EIS.
    (c) A Draft EIS shall be available to the public for their review 
and comment, for a period of generally forty-five (45) calendar days. 
The public comment period shall begin when NCPC shares a copy of the 
Draft EIS with EPA in anticipation of EPA's publication of an NOA. The 
NCPC shall hold at least one public meeting during the public comment 
period on a Draft EIS. The public meeting shall be announced at least 
thirty (30) calendar days in advance of its scheduled occurrence. The 
announcement shall identify the subject of the Draft EIS and include 
the public meeting date, time, and location.


Sec.  601.24  Final Environmental Impact Statement.

    (a) The NCPC shall prepare a Final EIS following the public comment 
period and the public meeting(s) on the Draft EIS. The Final EIS shall 
respond to oral and written comments received during the Draft EIS 
public comment period.
    (b) The Commission shall take final action on an application 
following a thirty (30) day Commission-sponsored review period of the 
Final EIS. The thirty (30) day period shall start when the EPA 
publishes a NOA for the Final EIS in the Federal Register.


Sec.  601.25  Record of Decision.

    (a) If NCPC is the Lead Agency and decides to recommend approval of 
a proposed action covered by an EIS, it shall prepare and sign a ROD 
stating the Commission's decision and any Mitigation measures required 
by the Commission.
    (1) The ROD shall include among others:
    (i) A statement of the decision.
    (ii) The identification of alternatives considered in reaching a 
decision specifying the alternatives that were considered to be 
environmentally

[[Page 45433]]

preferable. The ROD shall discuss preferences among alternatives based 
on relevant factors including economic and technical planning 
considerations and the Commission's statutory mission. The ROD shall 
identify those factors balanced to reach a decision and the influence 
of various factors on the decision.
    (iii) A statement as to whether all practicable means to avoid or 
minimize environmental harm from the alternative selected has been 
adopted, and if not, why they are not.
    (iv) A monitoring and enforcement program that summarizes 
Mitigation measures.
    (v) Date of issuance.
    (vi) Signature of the Chairman.
    (2) The contents of the draft ROD proposed for Commission adoption 
shall be summarized in the EDR and a full version of the draft document 
shall be included as an Appendix to the EDR. The Draft ROD, 
independently of the EDR, shall be made available to the public for 
review fourteen (14) calendar days prior to the Commission's 
consideration of the proposed action for which the EIS was prepared.
    (3) The Commission shall arrive at its decision about the proposed 
action for which NCPC serves as the Lead Agency and its environmental 
effects in a public meeting of record as identified by the Commission's 
monthly agenda.
    (b) If NCPC is not the Lead Agency, following the Commission final 
approval of a project to which a ROD pertains, and consistent with the 
Federal Agency's NEPA regulations, NCPC may take one of the following 
actions. It may either co-sign the Lead Agency's ROD following 
Commission approval of the project if NCPC agrees with its contents and 
conclusions or it shall prepare, sign, and sign and adopt its own ROD 
in accordance with the requirements of paragraphs (a)(1) through (3) of 
this section.
    (c) If the Commission determines a Lead Agency's EIS fails to 
support a ROD, the Lead Agency shall revise its EIS, or, alternatively, 
the Commission shall not approve or give any further consideration to 
underlying application.


Sec.  601.26  Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement.

    (a) The NCPC shall prepare a supplemental EIS if five or more years 
has elapsed since adoption of the EIS and:
    (1) There are substantial changes to the proposed action that are 
relevant to environmental concerns; or
    (2) There are significant new circumstances or information that are 
relevant to environmental concerns and have a bearing on the proposed 
action or its impacts.
    (b) The NCPC may supplement a Draft or Final EIS at any time, to 
further the purposes of NEPA.
    (c) The NCPC shall prepare, circulate, and file a supplement to a 
Draft or Final EIS in in accordance with the requirements of Sec. Sec.  
601.22 through 601.24 except that Public Scoping is optional for a 
supplemental EIS.
    (d) The NCPC shall prepare a ROD for a Supplemental EIS. The ROD's 
contents, the procedure for public review, and the manner in which it 
shall be adopted shall be as set forth in Sec.  601.25.


Sec.  601.27  Legislative Environmental Impact Statement.

    (a) Consistent with 40 CFR1506.8, the Executive Director shall 
prepare an EIS for draft legislation initiated by NCPC for submission 
to Congress. The EIS for the proposed legislation shall be included as 
part of the formal transmittal of NCPC's legislative proposal to 
Congress.
    (b) The requirements of this section shall not apply to legislation 
Congress directs NCPC to prepare.

Subpart G--Dispute Resolution


Sec.  601.28  Dispute resolution.

    Any disputes arising under this part, shall be resolved, unless 
otherwise otherwise provided by law or regulation by the parties 
through interagency, good faith negotiations starting at the working 
levels of each agency, and if necessary, by elevating such disputes 
within the respective Agencies. If resolution at higher levels is 
unsuccessful, the parties may participate in mediation.


Sec.  601.29   [Reserved]

    Dated: September 21, 2017.
Anne R. Schuyler,
General Counsel.
[FR Doc. 2017-20614 Filed 9-28-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE P