H.R.1592 - Securing Our Lands and Resources Act; SOLAR Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1592, the Securing Our Lands and Resources Act (SOLAR Act), aims to limit USDA funding for ground-mounted solar energy systems. The bill restricts the Secretary of Agriculture from providing financial assistance for projects that convert covered farmland for solar energy production, with certain exceptions. These exceptions include projects converting less than 5 acres, projects where the majority of energy is for on-farm use and convert less than 50 acres, or projects approved by local county and municipality resolutions.
Expected Effects
The bill, if enacted, would likely reduce the amount of USDA funding available for large-scale, ground-mounted solar projects on farmland. This could slow the expansion of solar energy production on agricultural lands. It may also incentivize smaller, on-farm solar projects and encourage local community involvement in approving larger projects.
Potential Benefits
- Preservation of agricultural land for farming.
- Encourages on-farm solar energy use.
- Promotes local control over solar project siting.
- Requires farmland conservation plans for approved projects, ensuring soil health and restoration.
- May lead to more sustainable and responsible solar energy development.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potentially slows down the transition to renewable energy sources.
- Could increase the cost of solar energy projects due to land limitations.
- May hinder economic opportunities for farmers who could lease their land for solar development.
- Could create bureaucratic hurdles with the need for local approvals and conservation plans.
- May disproportionately affect rural communities dependent on solar energy projects for economic growth.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to allocate funds for the general welfare. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or freedoms. The limitations on USDA funding are within the purview of Congress's spending power.
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).