H.R.2371 - Scarper Ridge Golden Gate National Recreation Area Boundary Adjustment Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2371, the Scarper Ridge Golden Gate National Recreation Area Boundary Adjustment Act, proposes to adjust the boundaries of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area to include the Scarper Ridge property. This involves amending Section 2(a)(2) of Public Law 92-589 to incorporate land depicted on a specific map dated July 2024. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by Mr. Liccardo and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources.
The primary goal is to expand the Golden Gate National Recreation Area by adding the Scarper Ridge property. This expansion aims to enhance the recreational and conservation value of the area.
The bill itself is a simple boundary adjustment, focusing on a specific piece of land. The impact will largely depend on the characteristics and planned use of the Scarper Ridge property.
Expected Effects
The immediate effect of the bill, if enacted, would be the expansion of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. This would bring Scarper Ridge under the management and protection of the National Park Service.
This change could lead to increased recreational opportunities, enhanced conservation efforts, and potential economic benefits from tourism. The long-term effects will depend on how the newly included land is managed and developed.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced Conservation: Protecting Scarper Ridge under the National Park Service could preserve its natural resources and biodiversity.
- Increased Recreational Opportunities: The expansion could provide more space for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
- Economic Benefits from Tourism: A larger, more attractive recreation area could draw more visitors, benefiting local businesses.
- Preservation of Cultural Heritage: If Scarper Ridge has historical or cultural significance, its inclusion in the park could ensure its preservation.
- Improved Public Access: The bill could improve public access to natural spaces.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Land Use Restrictions: Private landowners near the expanded boundary might face new restrictions or regulations.
- Increased Management Costs: The National Park Service would incur additional costs for managing the larger area.
- Possible Overcrowding: Increased visitation could lead to overcrowding and strain on park resources.
- Environmental Impact of Development: Development of new facilities could have negative environmental impacts if not carefully managed.
- Loss of Local Control: Local communities might feel a loss of control over land use decisions.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the Property Clause (Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2), which grants Congress the power to manage and regulate federal lands. The expansion of a National Recreation Area falls under this power.
There are no apparent infringements on individual rights or liberties. The bill does not appear to violate any specific constitutional provisions.
However, potential concerns could arise if the expansion involves taking private property without just compensation, which would violate the Fifth Amendment's Takings Clause. The bill does not explicitly address this, so alignment depends on implementation.
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).