H.R.3067 - Arctic Refuge Protection Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3067, the Arctic Refuge Protection Act, aims to repeal the oil and gas program established by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (Public Law 115-97) within the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). It also seeks to designate approximately 1,559,538 acres of the Arctic coastal plain as wilderness. This designation would place the area under the protection of the National Wilderness Preservation System.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would halt any further oil and gas development in the designated area of ANWR. The area would be managed to preserve its natural ecosystems. This would likely lead to a decrease in potential domestic oil production and an increase in protected wilderness areas.
Potential Benefits
- Preservation of Arctic National Wildlife Refuge's Ecosystem: Protects biodiversity and natural habitats.
- Prevention of Potential Environmental Damage: Reduces the risk of oil spills and habitat disruption.
- Recognition of Wilderness Value: Acknowledges the intrinsic value of the Arctic coastal plain for present and future generations.
- Alignment with Environmental Treaties: Supports international commitments to environmental conservation.
- Promotion of Eco-Tourism: Could boost local economies through nature-based tourism.
Potential Disadvantages
- Reduced Domestic Oil Production: Limits potential energy resources, possibly increasing reliance on foreign oil.
- Job Losses in the Energy Sector: Could lead to decreased employment opportunities in oil and gas industries.
- Economic Impact on Alaska: Reduced revenue for the state due to halted oil and gas activities.
- Increased Energy Costs: Potential rise in energy prices due to limited supply.
- Restriction of Land Use: Limits other potential uses of the land, such as resource extraction or infrastructure development.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is complex. Congress has the power to regulate federal lands under Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2 (the Property Clause). However, the potential economic impacts on Alaska could raise concerns related to equal footing principles, though these are typically applied at the time of statehood. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific individual rights outlined in 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).