North Carolina Bill Guts the State’s Environmental Policy Act

(RALEIGH, NC – April 21, 2015) A bill introduced in the North Carolina House of Representatives would severely undermine the state Environmental Policy Act (referred to as SEPA), a 1971 law that requires environmental reviews for projects that have a significant environmental impact, need state approval (such as a permit) and involve the use of taxpayers’ dollars or public lands. The bill would exempt many projects from environmental review, even if tens of millions in tax money is being spent. It is expected to be voted on in the House Environment Committee April 23.

“This bill essentially guts the program, leaving only a false-front in place. HB 795 changes the thresholds that trigger broader environmental review of major projects funded by taxpayer dollars. Under HB 795, review would only be required for projects that cost at least $20 million in taxpayers’ dollars or that result in permanent changes to more than 20 acres of state-owned land.

“The SEPA review process is there to make sure taxpayers’ money is used responsibly. It helps state agencies and the public understand the impacts of a project and alternatives that may cause less damage. The current SEPA law makes sense because North Carolinians care about the environment and their tax dollars.

“The SEPA review process doesn’t stop projects, so it’s not a threat to business or the economy. What it does is help avoid unnecessary harm to our lands, waters, and wildlife. North Carolinians deserve assurance that our tax dollars are being used responsibly.” - David Kelly, Senior Analyst, EDF Ecosystems Program