327 IAC 11-1-4 General considerations for preparing environmental assessment forms

Sec. 4. (a) In accordance with IC 13-12-4-5, each state agency must determine whether an action it is considering constitutes a major state action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment. Such an action requires the completion of an environmental impact statement. The definitions from this rule and the preparation of an environmental assessment will aid state agencies in making a determination of the necessity for an environmental impact statement. The department shall develop guidance to further aid state agencies in this assessment, including the following: (1) A state form for an environmental assessment. (2) Guidance on completion of an environmental impact statement. (b) Before developing an environmental impact statement, each responsible official, in accordance with IC 13-12-4-5, shall consult with and obtain comments of each state agency that has jurisdiction by law or special expertise with respect to any environmental impact involved. Copies of the statement and the comments of the appropriate federal, state, and local agencies that are authorized to develop and enforce environmental standards: (1) shall be made available to the governor and the public; and (2) must accompany the proposal through the agency review processes.