H.R.1829 - Apache County and Navajo County Conveyance Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1829, the Apache County and Navajo County Conveyance Act of 2025, directs the Secretary of Agriculture to convey specific parcels of National Forest System land within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests to Navajo County and Apache County in Arizona. The land is intended for use as cemeteries and for a townsite tract. The conveyances are subject to certain terms and conditions, including that the counties pay for the costs of conveyance, such as surveys and environmental analyses.
Expected Effects
This act will transfer ownership of approximately 5 acres to Navajo County and 10.62 acres to Apache County. Navajo County will use the land for cemetery expansion, while Apache County will use its land for cemetery expansion and a townsite tract. If the counties cease to use the land as specified, the land reverts to the United States.
Potential Benefits
- Provides land for cemetery expansion in both counties, addressing potential needs for burial space.
- Allows for the development of a townsite tract in Apache County, potentially fostering community growth.
- Transfers land at no cost to the counties (though they bear conveyance costs), potentially freeing up county funds for other uses.
- The Act streamlines the land transfer process, avoiding lengthy administrative delays.
- Addresses local needs by providing land for essential community services.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Removes land from the National Forest System, potentially impacting recreational opportunities or resource management.
- Requires the counties to bear the costs of surveys and environmental analyses, which could be a financial burden.
- The reversion clause could create uncertainty for the counties if future needs change.
- The act is narrowly focused and may not address broader land management issues in the region.
- Potential for environmental impact if the land development is not properly managed.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the Property Clause of the US Constitution (Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2), which grants Congress the power to dispose of and regulate territory or other property belonging to the United States. The Act does not appear to infringe on any individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments. The act enables local communities to address specific needs, which aligns with the general welfare principle.
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).