§ 26.10 Purpose of this part.

(a) The purpose of this part is to implement NEPA as amended (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) for VA actions. VA will follow the procedures and policies outlined in this part; relevant Executive orders, statutes, and regulations; and the policies of VA.

(b) This part establishes a framework for the early incorporation of the NEPA process into VA planning and decision-making for all VA activities that meet the definition of major Federal action in section 111(10) of NEPA (42. U.S.C. 4336e(10)).

(c) This part emphasizes the quality and timeliness of analysis of environmental effects rather than simply the production of documents.

(d) VA intends this part to ensure that VA identifies and considers relevant environmental information early in the process to ensure informed decision-making; to ensure that VA conducts environmental reviews in a coordinated, consistent, predictable, and timely manner; to reduce unnecessary burdens and delays; and to promote concurrent environmental reviews to ensure timely and efficient decision-making.

(e) This part does not, nor does it intend to, govern the rights and obligations of any party outside the Federal Government. They do, however, establish the procedures under which VA will typically fulfill its requirements under NEPA.

(f) In addition to the process for establishing or revising categorical exclusions (CATEXs) set forth in § 26.30(d), VA will consult with the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) on any proposed future revisions to these NEPA implementing procedures in accordance with section 102(2)(B) of NEPA (42 U.S.C. 4332(B)).