FR 2020-27912

The document details the removal of a regulation by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers from the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). This particular regulation was initially intended to guide improvements in environmental quality related to water resource projects. However, over time it became outdated and redundant, primarily as it addressed internal agency operations without affecting public compliance. Its removal simplifies the broader regulatory framework and reduces potential confusion about current policies.

General Summary

The regulation removal is part of efforts by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to update and streamline legal provisions related to environmental quality in water resources. Originally introduced in 1980, the regulation became unnecessary as it overlapped with or was superseded by other internal documents and updated policies. Notably, more contemporary regulations and guidelines, including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) implementation procedures, now cover these topics effectively.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Several issues arise from the document. First, it repeatedly mentions "internal agency operations" and "updated internal agency policy," but does not offer details on these policies, potentially creating confusion. Furthermore, references to other documents, such as Engineer Regulation 1105-2-100 and NEPA, lack detailed explanations. This could make it difficult for those unfamiliar with such documents to understand the full implications of the regulation removal without further research.

Moreover, the language used to describe the rule's removal might seem complex. Terminology such as "out-of-date and redundant" may not be easily understood by all readers. Additionally, there's a vague explanation about the changes that have rendered this regulation obsolete, which could benefit from more context.

Another concern is the absence of public consultations or feedback when deciding on this removal. While the document asserts that such solicitation was unnecessary, this could raise questions about transparency in regulatory processes.

Impact on the Public

For the public at large, the removal of these regulations is unlikely to have a direct impact. The original rule involved processes internal to the Army Corps, meaning its elimination does not change any public requirements or decrease any burdens directly related to compliance. Furthermore, the emphasis remains on maintaining clear, up-to-date regulations governing environmental quality, ensuring that water resources projects are environmentally evaluated through established, modern protocols.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For stakeholders directly involved in water resource projects or environmental quality assessments, this document signals a shift towards more streamlined and potentially easier to follow regulations. By removing outdated rules, the Corps aims to reduce redundancy and enhance clarity in current practices. This could possibly lead to fewer bureaucratic hurdles and a clearer understanding of compliance obligations under more current rules and regulations.

However, stakeholders such as environmental groups or entities involved in regulatory oversight may be cautious about the implications of such updates, particularly if they feel that important guidelines are being removed without appropriate replacements or public consultation. They might be concerned about maintaining stringent environmental protections amid evolving regulations.

Overall, the document highlights a step towards simplification in regulatory affairs by recognizing and removing unnecessary provisions, fostering an environment of clear and updated rules that govern the Corps of Engineers' operations in environmental management.