Recent developments in California's environmental review process—an evaluation of the use made of environmental impact reports

Abstract

This paper evaluates the use of CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act, 1970) and the extent to which it has achieved its goals. There has been criticism of unreasonable delay in project reviews, and consequently increased project costs. Little use has been made of techniques to speed up the review process and many reports lack a focus on essential issues. Reference is also made to the effect of Proposition 13, in diminishing political commitment to environmental policies.