H.R.104 - Protecting Arizona from Federal Land Grabs Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 104, the "Protecting Arizona from Federal Land Grabs Act," aims to amend Title 54 of the United States Code to require express Congressional authorization for the extension or establishment of national monuments in Arizona. This bill, introduced in the House of Representatives by Mr. Biggs of Arizona, seeks to limit the President's authority under the Antiquities Act regarding national monument designations within the state. The bill specifically targets Section 320301 of Title 54, adding Arizona to the list of states (along with Wyoming) where such limitations apply.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill, if enacted, would be to shift the power to designate national monuments in Arizona from the executive branch to the legislative branch. This would require any future national monument designations or extensions in Arizona to be approved by Congress, potentially slowing down or preventing such actions. It could also lead to increased political debate and negotiation surrounding land conservation efforts in the state.
Potential Benefits
- Could provide greater local control over land use decisions in Arizona.
- May lead to more balanced consideration of economic and environmental factors in land management.
- Could increase transparency and public input in the national monument designation process.
- Prevents potential overreach by the executive branch in designating national monuments without local consent.
- May foster greater collaboration between federal and state governments on land conservation initiatives.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could hinder efforts to protect ecologically sensitive or culturally significant areas in Arizona.
- May delay or prevent the establishment of new national monuments that could benefit tourism and recreation.
- Could lead to increased development and resource extraction in areas that might otherwise be protected.
- Potentially undermines the Antiquities Act and the President's ability to quickly respond to conservation needs.
- May create uncertainty and conflict over land management policies in Arizona.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill touches on the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches, specifically regarding land management and the designation of national monuments. The Antiquities Act, which grants the President authority to create national monuments, has been subject to debate regarding its scope and potential for executive overreach. This bill seeks to reassert Congressional authority over such designations in Arizona, aligning with the principle of legislative power vested in Congress under Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution. However, the constitutionality of limiting the President's authority under the Antiquities Act specifically for one state could be challenged.
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).