Number: RL32032
Title: Streamlining Environmental Reviews of Highway and Transit Projects: Analysis of TEA-LU (H.R. 3) and SAFETEA (S. 732)
Authors: Linda G. Luther, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: Streamlining provisions include the designation of DOT as the "lead agency" in the environmental review process; the designation of authority to the lead agency to define a project's purpose and need, and to determine the range of alternatives to be considered; the creation of a dispute resolution process to address issues of concern between agencies; amendments to current statutory requirements to potentially allow for the use of certain public lands or historic sites for transportation projects; delegation of certain authority to state agencies; and the establishment of a statute of limitations on final agency actions or comment deadlines applicable to agencies and the public. This report provides background and detail on streamlining provisions proposed during the 109th Congress. For more information on issues regarding the environmental review process, see CRS Report RL32024, Background on NEPA Implementation for Highway Projects: Streamlining the Process.
Pages: 14
Date: July 22, 2005