WHen the question asks, what is the basic premise of the environmental act. What is it asking me for, what it covers? I interpreted as what it covers but when i searched up the definition for premise, it said previous statement or base of argument. So now i am confused

For that question, I'd use "base of argument" as the definition of "basic premise."

What is the environmental act you're writing about?

What is the basis/base of the argument regarding that act?

A premise is a fact or idea upon which some action is taken.

Examples:
Premise: Politics is divisive.
Action: I won't bring up politics at dinner.

Premise: Global warming is caused by humans.
Action: I'll do what I can to slow down global warming.

When the question asks about the basic premise of the environmental act, it is indeed asking for the underlying principle or foundation on which the act is based. In this context, "premise" refers to the fundamental idea or concept that forms the basis of the entire environmental act.

While the term "premise" can generally refer to a previous statement or the base of an argument, it can also be used to describe the underlying principle or basic assumption of a particular topic or concept. In the case of an environmental act, the premise typically relates to the main objectives, goals, or principles that shape the legislation, rather than a statement or argument.

To determine the basic premise of the environmental act, you should focus on understanding the main objectives and principles outlined in the act itself. This can include examining the act's purpose, its provisions, and any guiding principles that are emphasized. Reading the act and identifying its key themes and objectives will help you determine its basic premise.

To find the specific environmental act you are referring to, you can search for the name of the act or related legislation using reputable online sources, such as government websites, legal databases, or environmental organizations' websites. Reading the act itself or researching summaries or analyses of the act will provide you with the necessary information to identify its basic premise.