Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Business Management Practice Test

The creation of the EPA was part of which major legislative act?

1. National Environmental Policy Act

2. Clean Water Act

3. Food Safety Modernization Act

4. Occupational Safety and Health Act

The correct answer is: National Environmental Policy Act

The creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was indeed part of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), which was enacted in 1969. NEPA was significant because it established a framework for environmental planning and review, requiring federal agencies to assess the environmental impacts of their proposed actions before making decisions. The EPA itself was established shortly thereafter, in 1970, as a response to growing concerns about pollution and environmental degradation. This act laid the groundwork for implementing and enforcing regulations that protect the environment, making it a pivotal moment in U.S. environmental policy. While the other acts listed are important for various aspects of environmental and public health regulation, they emerged after the premise of environmental protection had been formally recognized and were not directly responsible for the establishment of the EPA. The Clean Water Act focuses specifically on regulating water pollution, the Food Safety Modernization Act emphasizes food safety practices, and the Occupational Safety and Health Act aims at ensuring workplace safety. All these acts build on the initial framework and intent set by NEPA and the creation of the EPA, but they do not relate to the foundation of the agency itself.