This rule finalizes the policies and procedures set forth in HUD's April 5, 1996 proposed rule. Additionally, this rule makes several clarifying and technical amendments to the proposed rule. The final rule simplifies, improves, and updates HUD's implementation of responsibilities for environmental review and decision making under the National Environmental Policy Act and the other related Federal environmental laws and authorities. This final rule replaces HUD's current regulations at 24 CFR part 50.