H.R.839 - To prohibit the implementation of a Land Protection Plan for Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 839 aims to prohibit the implementation of the Land Protection Plan for Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge, as outlined in the United States Fish and Wildlife Service's document published in February 2023. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by Mr. Arrington and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources. The bill seeks to prevent the Secretary of the Interior from finalizing, implementing, administering, or enforcing the plan.
The Land Protection Plan likely outlines strategies for managing and conserving land within and around the Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge. By prohibiting its implementation, the bill effectively maintains the status quo regarding land management practices in the area.
The implications of this bill could be significant for environmental conservation efforts, local communities, and economic activities tied to the refuge.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R. 839 would prevent the implementation of the Land Protection Plan for Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge. This would mean that the existing land management practices would continue without the changes proposed in the plan.
This could affect conservation efforts, potentially hindering improvements in habitat preservation and wildlife management. It could also impact local communities and economic activities dependent on the refuge's resources.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially maintains existing land use practices that local communities and economies have adapted to.
- Could prevent unforeseen negative consequences of the new Land Protection Plan on local businesses or residents.
- May address concerns raised by stakeholders regarding the plan's impact on private property rights or access to resources.
- Allows for further review and public discussion of the Land Protection Plan before implementation.
- Could prevent potential overreach by the federal government in land management decisions.
Potential Disadvantages
- May hinder efforts to improve conservation and habitat management within the Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge.
- Could prevent the implementation of measures to address environmental challenges or protect endangered species.
- May disregard scientific recommendations and best practices for land management.
- Could limit opportunities for collaboration and partnerships with local communities and stakeholders in conservation efforts.
- May negatively impact the long-term sustainability and resilience of the refuge's ecosystem.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is primarily related to the balance of power between the federal government and states, as well as the role of Congress in overseeing executive branch actions. Article I, Section 1 vests all legislative powers in Congress, giving it the authority to enact laws that restrict the actions of the executive branch, including the Secretary of the Interior.
The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution. However, the potential impact on environmental protection and conservation could be relevant to the general welfare clause.
Whether the bill aligns with the spirit of promoting the general welfare is debatable and depends on one's view of the Land Protection Plan's merits.
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).