H.R.678 - Expression of Interest Sensibility Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 678, the "Expression of Interest Sensibility Act," proposes amendments to the Mineral Leasing Act concerning fees associated with expressions of interest in oil and gas leases on federal lands. The bill aims to refine the process by which fees are assessed when parties express interest in leasing land for exploration and development. It clarifies the conditions under which fees are assessed, specifically addressing situations where no bids are received or when a successful bid is made.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to modify the financial obligations related to expressing interest in mineral leases. This could potentially impact the number of expressions of interest submitted and the revenue generated from these leases. The bill also sets a minimum term of five years for an expression of interest to remain active unless the land is offered at a lease sale.
Potential Benefits
- Clarified Fee Structure: Provides a clearer framework for assessing fees related to expressions of interest.
- Potential Revenue Generation: Could lead to more efficient revenue collection from mineral leases.
- Encourages Active Interest: The five-year term ensures that expressions of interest remain relevant.
- Streamlined Leasing Process: Aims to improve the overall efficiency of the mineral leasing process.
- Addresses Unbid Lands: Introduces a fee mechanism for lands where expressions of interest exist but no bids are received.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Costs for Bidders: The fee for expression of interest could increase the financial burden on potential bidders.
- Discourages Exploration: Higher costs might deter some companies from expressing interest in exploration.
- Complexity: The amended language could introduce new complexities in the leasing process.
- Potential for Litigation: Ambiguities in the interpretation of the new fee structure could lead to legal challenges.
- Limited Scope: The bill focuses narrowly on fees and may not address broader issues related to mineral leasing.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with Congress's power under Article I, Section 8, which grants it the authority to regulate federal lands and manage natural resources. There are no apparent conflicts with specific constitutional amendments. The bill's focus on fees and leasing procedures falls within the scope of congressional authority over federal property.
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).