Under the Coastal Zone Management Act, which requirement must federal actions meet?

Under the Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA), the requirement that federal actions must meet is known as Federal Consistency. This principle ensures that federal activities in or affecting coastal zones adhere to the policies and objectives set forth by state coastal management programs. The purpose of this requirement is to promote collaboration between federal and state governments in the management and preservation of coastal resources.

When federal agencies undertake actions that could impact coastal areas, they are obligated to evaluate their projects for consistency with the enforceable policies of the respective state coastal management program. This alignment is critical to ensuring that federal initiatives do not undermine state efforts to protect coastal environments, balance economic development, and maintain community values.

The other options, while related to coastal management, do not represent requirements that directly govern federal actions under the CZMA. The Coastal Zone Enhancement Program, National Estuarine Research Reserve System, and Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program all contribute to coastal management in various ways but do not specifically establish the consistency requirement that applies to federal actions.