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Reforms to environmental policy being discussed in D.C.

Another hearing on proposed reforms to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is taking place today in Washington with environmental and industry groups testifying on the Trump Administration’s plan to improve the environmental review process.

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association CEO Colin Woodall says the proposed changes are welcome news for ranchers and farmers whose livelihoods depend on NEPA reviews. Woodall says NEPA, in its current form, has become a costly and time-consuming burden for renewals of grazing permits, construction of range improvements, or to become eligible for participation in USDA programs.

The proposed reforms are also supported by American Farm Bureau. President Zippy Duvall says the action would accelerate construction of roads and other infrastructure projects that benefit farmers.

NCBA and AFBF are part of a coalition, called the Unlock American Investment Coalition, that is backing the administration’s plan.