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

Answer 1

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?

Answer 2

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.