H.R.831 - Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program Amendment Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 831, the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program Amendment Act of 2025, aims to establish an interest-bearing account for non-federal contributions to the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program. This account will be managed by the Treasury and used for the conservation program as outlined in existing agreements.
The bill amends Section 9402 of the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009 to create this fund. It allows for the deposit of both unexpended prior contributions and future contributions from state parties.
The fund's assets can be invested in U.S. obligations, and the resulting interest will also be used for the conservation program.
Expected Effects
The primary effect will be to streamline the management of non-federal funds allocated to the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program. By creating an interest-bearing account, the bill seeks to increase the financial resources available for conservation efforts.
This could lead to more effective implementation of the conservation program, benefiting the species and ecosystems dependent on the Lower Colorado River. State parties will also be relieved of responsibility for investment losses once funds are deposited.
Potential Benefits
- Increased funding for the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program through interest earned.
- More efficient management of non-federal contributions.
- Reduced financial risk for state parties involved in the program.
- Potential for enhanced conservation outcomes for endangered and threatened species.
- Streamlined allocation of resources for environmental projects.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for bureaucratic delays in accessing the funds.
- Dependence on the Secretary of the Treasury's investment decisions, which may not always maximize returns.
- Limited scope, focusing only on non-federal contributions and potentially overlooking other funding needs.
- Possible administrative overhead associated with managing the new account.
- The bill does not address potential shortfalls in funding if investment returns are low.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the U.S. Constitution, as it aims to promote conservation and responsible management of natural resources. The establishment of a fund within the Treasury is consistent with Congress's power to manage federal finances.
There is no apparent infringement on individual rights or state powers. The bill operates within the existing framework of federal-state cooperation on environmental issues.
It does not appear to violate any specific constitutional provision.
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).