H.R.2252 - North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2252, the North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act of 2025, aims to facilitate the exchange of land and mineral rights between the State of North Dakota and the federal government, specifically targeting State land grant parcels located within Indian reservations. The bill authorizes the state to relinquish these parcels to the federal government and, in return, select unappropriated Federal land of substantially equivalent value. This process intends to consolidate land ownership and potentially benefit both the state and tribal entities.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of this bill is a restructuring of land ownership in North Dakota, with the state relinquishing certain lands within reservations and acquiring other federal lands. This could lead to more efficient land management for both the state and the relevant Indian tribes, as well as potential economic benefits from resource development. The bill also includes provisions for environmental review and consultation with affected tribes.
Potential Benefits
- Streamlines land management by consolidating ownership.
- Potentially increases economic opportunities for both the State of North Dakota and Indian Tribes through resource development.
- Restores land to Indian Tribes, fulfilling historical obligations and addressing past grievances.
- Provides a mechanism for resolving land disputes and clarifying ownership.
- Includes environmental review processes to mitigate potential negative impacts.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for disputes over land valuation and selection.
- Environmental reviews could delay or halt land transfers.
- Possible negative impacts on existing grazing permits or other land uses.
- Risk of inadequate consultation with affected Indian Tribes.
- Could create administrative burdens for the Department of the Interior and the State of North Dakota.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill 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 bill also respects the federal government's trust responsibility to Indian tribes, as it includes provisions for tribal consultation and the potential transfer of land into trust. Furthermore, the relinquishment of land by the State of North Dakota is a voluntary action, not compelled by the federal government, thus respecting the state's sovereignty.
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).