H.R.3465 - Civilian Conservation Center Enhancement Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3465, the Civilian Conservation Center Enhancement Act of 2025, aims to amend Public Law 91-378 to authorize and expand activities related to Civilian Conservation Centers (CCCs). The bill focuses on providing specialized training programs for underserved youth, particularly in forestry, rangeland management, and wildland firefighting. It also establishes a wildland firefighting workforce development pilot program and seeks to enhance recruitment, training, and retention of CCC graduates in related fields.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to increased investment in CCCs, offering more specialized training opportunities for young people. This could result in a larger and better-trained workforce for wildland firefighting and conservation efforts. Additionally, the direct hire authority and signing bonuses may incentivize CCC graduates to pursue careers in public land agencies.
Potential Benefits
- Increased job opportunities for underserved youth, particularly in rural areas.
- Enhanced wildland firefighting capabilities and improved forest management.
- Development of a skilled workforce for conservation and natural resource management.
- Potential for economic revitalization in communities near CCCs.
- Improved housing for wildland firefighters and other agency employees.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government spending on CCC programs and infrastructure.
- Risk of inefficient resource allocation if programs are not effectively managed.
- Possible displacement of existing workers if CCC graduates are given preferential treatment.
- Limited scope, focusing primarily on wildland firefighting and conservation, potentially neglecting other areas.
- The effectiveness of the pilot programs and recruitment goals is dependent on successful implementation and coordination between various agencies.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the Constitution, as it aims to promote the well-being of the nation by addressing workforce development and environmental conservation. The establishment and operation of Civilian Conservation Centers fall under the enumerated powers of Congress to regulate public lands and provide for the common defense by mitigating the threat of wildfires. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).