H.R.1043 - La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 1043, the La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act, directs the Secretary of the Interior to convey approximately 3,400 acres of federal land in Arizona to La Paz County. The purpose is to facilitate solar energy development and job creation. The conveyance is subject to valid existing rights, terms set by the Secretary, and payment of fair market value by the County.
Expected Effects
The bill, if enacted, would transfer federal land to La Paz County, Arizona, potentially enabling the development of solar energy projects. This could lead to increased renewable energy production and new employment opportunities in the region. The land is also withdrawn from mining and mineral leasing laws.
Potential Benefits
- Potential for increased solar energy production.
- Creation of jobs in the renewable energy sector.
- Economic development in La Paz County, Arizona.
- Revenue generation for the federal government through the sale of the land.
- Support for local community development through potential tax revenue from solar projects.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential loss of access to federal land for other uses (e.g., recreation, grazing).
- Possible environmental impacts from solar energy development (habitat disruption).
- Risk of disturbing tribal cultural artifacts during development.
- The county bears the costs of surveys, appraisals, and administrative costs.
- Exclusion of land with significant cultural, environmental, wildlife, or recreational resources.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to dispose of and regulate federal territory. The requirement for fair market value payment also aligns with the principle of just compensation. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).