Protect NEPA

In the dumpster fire that has been the United States’ response to the coronavirus pandemic burns an environmental regulation that has protected the people and places of this country for more than five decades: the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

NEPA has allowed citizens to be informed of construction projects that could harm their communities since 1970. The act ensures the government informs community members of the projects in their areas, asks for public comment from citizens and considers the environmental impacts of projects.

Environmental reviews required by NEPA have sidelined several controversial pipelines, including the Dakota Access pipeline earlier this month, which could have several serious environmental consequences if built.

In hopes to boost the economy, the Trump administration announced rollbacks to NEPA that will decrease or completely remove the need for environmental studies before construction projects, including those for power plants and pipelines. The revisions to NEPA would also remove the need for federal agencies to consider the impacts of construction projects on climate change.

Looking at the situation through a wide scope, President Donald Trump should instead call for regulations to protect communities that are highly vulnerable to coronavirus spread due to elevated levels of air pollution. Pulling back on regulation is not a guarantee more jobs will be created or firms will profit; the only guarantee with these revisions is elevated levels of pollution.

November is coming, and it’s time to consider the best candidate who stands for environmental health and safety for our country. Until then, you can text NEPA to 43428 to urge your elected officials to protect NEPA.

MORGAN COLLINS Upper St. Clair