H.R.229 - To prohibit the implementation of the Rock Springs Field Office Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 229 aims to prohibit the implementation of the Rock Springs Field Office Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan, published by the Bureau of Land Management in December 2024. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by Ms. Hageman and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources. The bill seeks to prevent the Secretary of the Interior from implementing, administering, or enforcing the mentioned plan.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R. 229 would halt the implementation of the Rock Springs Field Office Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan. This would maintain the status quo regarding land management practices in the Rock Springs Field Office area. The practical effects would depend on the specifics of the existing plan and the proposed changes in the Record of Decision.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially preserves existing economic activities, such as grazing or energy development, if the new plan restricts them.
- Could prevent unwanted environmental regulations if the existing plan is considered more balanced.
- May address local concerns if the Record of Decision was perceived as not adequately considering community input.
- Could prevent potential negative impacts on specific industries or communities if the new plan is seen as detrimental to them.
- May allow for further review and modification of the plan to better address stakeholder concerns.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could hinder environmental protection efforts if the Record of Decision aimed to improve conservation.
- May prevent modernization of resource management practices, potentially leading to inefficiencies.
- Could stifle economic diversification if the Record of Decision included provisions for new industries or activities.
- May disregard scientific advancements and best practices incorporated into the Record of Decision.
- Could create uncertainty for businesses and communities that were anticipating the implementation of the new plan.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill itself is a valid exercise of legislative power under Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in Congress. Congress has the power to direct the actions of the executive branch, including the Secretary of the Interior. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or protections. However, the underlying Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan, if implemented, would also need to be consistent with constitutional requirements, particularly regarding property rights (5th Amendment) and due process.
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).