H.R.2135 - Caza Ranches LLC and Department of Homeland Security Land Exchange Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2135, the "Caza Ranches LLC and Department of Homeland Security Land Exchange Act of 2025," facilitates a land exchange between Caza Ranches LLC and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in Artesia, New Mexico. The bill authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept an offer from Caza Ranches LLC to convey non-federal land to the Secretary, in exchange for federal land. The purpose is to allow DHS to expand the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) and adjust its boundaries.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of this bill is a reconfiguration of land ownership in Artesia, New Mexico. DHS will acquire land suitable for expanding FLETC training facilities, while Caza Ranches LLC will acquire federal land. This exchange aims to improve FLETC's training capabilities and adjust its operational boundaries.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced Law Enforcement Training: The land acquisition will allow FLETC to erect structures to support its training mission.
- Operational Efficiency: Boundary adjustments will streamline FLETC's operations.
- Local Economic Activity: Construction and development related to FLETC expansion could stimulate the local economy.
- Resource Optimization: The exchange ensures that land is used by the party that values it most, potentially leading to more efficient resource allocation.
- Government Efficiency: By consolidating land holdings, the government can potentially reduce administrative overhead.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Environmental Impact: Construction on the newly acquired land could have localized environmental impacts.
- Loss of Public Land: The exchange involves transferring federal land to a private entity, potentially reducing public access.
- Unequal Exchange Value: Although the bill states the land values are deemed equal, there could be perceived or actual discrepancies in value over time.
- Limited Transparency: The specifics of the "Map" and exchange agreement are not detailed in the bill, potentially raising transparency concerns.
- Dependence on Private Entity: The expansion of FLETC is contingent on the willingness of Caza Ranches LLC to convey the land.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to "exercise exclusive Legislation" over land purchased with the consent of a state legislature for the "Erection of Forts, Magazines, Arsenals, dock-Yards and other needful Buildings." The land exchange facilitates the expansion of FLETC, which supports federal law enforcement training, a function related to national security and domestic tranquility. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights.
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).