At a September 11 public meeting, AGC shared its concerns and recommendations regarding the White House Council on Environmental Quality’s (CEQ) proposed Phase 2 revisions to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Implementing Regulations. AGC is concerned that the proposed revisions could complicate and prolong infrastructure projects, jeopardizing the potential benefits of recent legislative acts. Delays can increase project costs and even lead to abandonment. Efficiency is essential for timely community benefits, resilience, and economic strength.
AGC member Marathon Construction hosts Rep. Mike Levin (D-CA) for a project tour of the San Dieguito Lagoon Wetland Restoration Project in San Diego, California.
Recording of Aug. 16 town hall now available
AGC Members and Chapters Welcome to Participate
On August 21, AGC raised concerns with proposed changes to rules that govern the implementation of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) such as the designation of critical habitat (AGC comment letter) and the interagency consultations (AGC comment letter) that are part of the approval process for projects that involve federal permits or funding. The proposed revisions reverse reforms made by the prior administration to streamline the process, change key definitions and concepts, and introduce additional requirements, for example to offset any impacts that cannot be avoided through the “reasonable and prudent measures” (RPMs) that project proponents currently employ.
AGC’s volunteers are valued members who work to address industry issues, exchange ideas, and lead change to advance the industry. You and your colleagues are invited to take the next step in your AGC journey and join the volunteer pool. Complete or update the volunteer tab in your member profile by October 1 to let us know what volunteer opportunities you are interested in—such as AGC’s Environmental Committee. Beginning in 2024, there are both longer-term committee volunteer positions and shorter-term volunteer opportunities available. Make the time commitment that works for you.
Revised rule continues to follow principles rejected by the U.S. Supreme Court
AGC’s volunteers are valued members who work to address industry issues, exchange ideas, and lead change to advance the industry. You and your colleagues are invited to take the next step in your AGC journey and join the volunteer pool. Complete or update the volunteer tab in your member profile by October 1 to let us know what volunteer opportunities you are interested in. Beginning in 2024, there are both longer-term committee volunteer positions and shorter-term volunteer opportunities available. Make the time commitment that works for you.
Agencies have delayed permits until changes are final
On August 1, the proposed rule on Sustainable Procurement was issued that will, among other things, require all federal agencies to prioritize the procurement of sustainable products and services “to the maximum extent practicable.” While the proposed rule largely consolidates existing requirements for federal agencies and federal contractors, the proposed rule allows for greater enforcement by contracting officers. Currently, federal agencies are required to ensure that 95 percent of new contracts use products or services that are energy-efficient, water-efficient, biobased, environmentally preferable, non-ozone depleting, or made with recovered materials. Additionally, the proposed rule directs federal agencies to follow EPA’s Recommendations of Specifications, Standards, and Ecolabels for Federal Purchasing. Public comments are due October 2, 2023.