H.R.375 - Continued Rapid Ohia Death Response Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.375, the Continued Rapid Ohia Death Response Act of 2025, directs the Secretary of the Interior to collaborate with the Secretary of Agriculture and the State of Hawaii to address Rapid Ohia Death (ROD). The bill focuses on research, ungulate management, and restoration efforts. It also provides financial assistance and infrastructure funding to combat the spread of ROD and restore native forests in Hawaii.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to increased research on ROD transmission and vectors. It will also improve ungulate management in affected areas. Furthermore, the bill should bolster restoration efforts of native forests in Hawaii through financial assistance and infrastructure support.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced research into Rapid Ohia Death transmission and vectors.
- Improved management of ungulates in ROD control areas, benefiting native ecosystems.
- Financial assistance for preventing the spread of ROD.
- Restoration of native forests in Hawaii.
- Strengthened collaboration between federal and state agencies.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for bureaucratic delays in implementing collaborative efforts.
- Reliance on federal funding, which may be subject to future budget cuts.
- Possible conflicts with private landowners regarding ungulate management.
- Limited scope, focusing solely on Rapid Ohia Death and not addressing other environmental concerns.
- The act does not create new regulations or enforcement mechanisms, relying on existing authorities.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) by promoting environmental protection and addressing a specific threat to Hawaii's natural resources. It also respects states' rights by partnering with the State of Hawaii. The necessary and proper clause could also be invoked as this is a necessary action to carry out the powers vested in the government.
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).