H.R.1192 - To ensure that Big Cypress National Preserve may not be designated as wilderness or as a component of the National Wilderness Preservation System, and for other purposes. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1192 aims to prevent the Big Cypress National Preserve in Florida from being designated as wilderness or included in the National Wilderness Preservation System. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on February 11, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources. The bill is sponsored by Mr. Scott Franklin of Florida, along with several other representatives.
The primary purpose of the bill is to ensure that the Big Cypress National Preserve remains excluded from wilderness designation. This would maintain the current management status of the preserve.
The bill's impact will largely depend on the existing management practices and the potential consequences of wilderness designation, which could affect land use, resource management, and public access.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of H.R.1192 is that the Big Cypress National Preserve will not be subject to the restrictions and regulations associated with wilderness areas. This could mean continued access for activities that might be limited or prohibited under wilderness designation.
This bill could also affect the balance between conservation and recreational or commercial activities within the preserve. The current management plan will likely continue without significant changes.
Ultimately, the bill's impact hinges on the specific differences between the current management and what would occur under wilderness designation.
Potential Benefits
- Maintains current access levels for recreational activities such as hunting, fishing, and off-road vehicle use, which might be restricted under wilderness designation.
- Allows for continued resource management practices currently in place, which may be tailored to local needs and conditions.
- Prevents potential economic impacts on local communities that rely on tourism and recreational activities within the preserve.
- Provides certainty for local stakeholders regarding the future management of the preserve.
- Avoids potential conflicts between different user groups with competing interests in the preserve.
Potential Disadvantages
- May limit opportunities for enhanced environmental protection that could result from wilderness designation.
- Could hinder the preservation of the area's natural character and biodiversity.
- May not align with broader conservation goals and initiatives.
- Could be perceived as prioritizing recreational and commercial interests over ecological preservation.
- May lead to long-term environmental degradation if current management practices are not sustainable.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the legislative powers granted to Congress under Article I, Section 1 of the U.S. Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in the Congress. Specifically, Congress has the power to manage and regulate federal lands, including national preserves.
There are no apparent conflicts with specific constitutional amendments, such as the First Amendment or the Second Amendment, based on the information provided. The bill does not directly infringe upon individual rights or liberties.
However, the constitutionality of the bill could be challenged if it were argued that it violates the government's duty to protect natural resources for future generations, although this is a complex and evolving area of constitutional law.
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).