S.1112 - Big Bend National Park Boundary Adjustment Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The Big Bend National Park Boundary Adjustment Act (S.1112) allows the Secretary of the Interior to acquire approximately 6,100 acres of land to be added to Big Bend National Park in Texas. The acquisition will occur through donation or exchange, explicitly prohibiting the use of eminent domain or condemnation. The acquired land will then be administered as part of the Park, following all applicable laws and regulations.
Expected Effects
The boundary of Big Bend National Park will be revised to include the acquired land. This will likely lead to increased conservation efforts and potentially enhanced recreational opportunities within the park. The Act ensures the land acquisition is voluntary, protecting private property rights.
Potential Benefits 4/5
- Enhanced Conservation: Incorporating additional land into the park can protect valuable ecosystems and biodiversity.
- Increased Recreational Opportunities: A larger park area may offer more space for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
- Economic Benefits: Increased tourism due to an expanded park could benefit local communities.
- Preservation of Natural Resources: The Act helps preserve natural resources and scenic landscapes for future generations.
- Voluntary Land Acquisition: Landowners can voluntarily donate or exchange land, respecting their property rights.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Limited Access: Some areas within the acquired land might have restricted access to protect sensitive ecosystems.
- Administrative Costs: Managing a larger park area could increase administrative costs for the National Park Service.
- Possible Conflicts with Existing Land Use: Integrating new land might lead to conflicts with existing land uses or resource management strategies.
- Impact on Local Communities: Changes in land use could affect local communities and their traditional practices.
- Lack of Specific Details: The Act relies on a map for land identification, which may lack detailed information for comprehensive impact assessment.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment 5/5
The Act appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the Property Clause (Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2), which grants Congress the power to manage and dispose of federal lands. The prohibition of eminent domain respects the Fifth Amendment's Takings Clause, ensuring private property is not taken for public use without just compensation. The act does not appear to infringe on any individual liberties or rights guaranteed by the Constitution or its amendments.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to citizens. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).