The state is taking public comment on a proposal to exempt more construction projects from environmental review.

The State Environmental Policy Act review includes a checklist of how a project might affect the environment; public comment on the impacts; and a ruling that accepts the project as is, rejects it or requires additional work to reduce environmental harm.

The state already allows local governments to exempt certain small projects from review, including housing developments and commercial and farm buildings. The new rule would increase the size thresholds for exempting a project.

Comments are due by Dec. 11 to separulemaking@ecy.wa.gov or via fax to 360-407-6904.

A public hearing will be held Tuesday, Dec. 4, in Lacey. For more information, go to ecy.wa.gov. Click on "Public Involvement Calendar," then scroll to "Lacey SEPA Rule Making Hearing."

Reach RALPH SCHWARTZ at ralph.schwartz@bellinghamherald.com or call 715-2264.