H.Con.Res.34 - Expressing the need for the Senate to provide advice and consent to ratification of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.Con.Res.34 is a concurrent resolution urging the Senate to ratify the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity. The resolution highlights the increasing loss of biodiversity worldwide and notes that the U.S. is the only UN member state that has not ratified the treaty. It argues that U.S. ratification would enhance its influence in international conservation efforts.
Expected Effects
If the Senate ratifies the Convention, the United States would become a party to the agreement, gaining a vote and greater influence in its decision-making processes. This could lead to increased alignment of U.S. policies with international conservation efforts. It could also lead to increased international cooperation on biodiversity issues.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced U.S. influence in global biodiversity conservation efforts.
- Improved international cooperation on environmental issues.
- Potential for increased access to international research and funding opportunities.
- Strengthened U.S. leadership in biodiversity science and expertise.
- Alignment of U.S. policies with international standards, potentially fostering innovation.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential constraints on domestic policies due to international obligations.
- Possible economic costs associated with implementing the Convention's provisions.
- Concerns about potential impacts on property rights or resource use.
- Risk of conflicts between international and domestic environmental regulations.
- Possible loss of sovereignty in environmental decision-making.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution itself does not directly violate the Constitution, as it is merely a recommendation to the Senate. The Senate's power to ratify treaties is derived from Article II, Section 2, Clause 2 of the Constitution, which states that the President "shall have Power, by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, to make Treaties, provided two thirds of the Senators present concur." The alignment with the constitution depends on the specific provisions of the Convention and how they are implemented domestically.
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).