S.1142 - Scarper Ridge Golden Gate National Recreation Area Boundary Adjustment Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1142, the Scarper Ridge Golden Gate National Recreation Area Boundary Adjustment Act, proposes to adjust the boundaries of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area to include the Scarper Ridge property. The bill, introduced in the Senate by Mr. Padilla, amends Section 2(a)(2) of Public Law 92-589 to incorporate land depicted on a specific map dated July 2024. This adjustment aims to expand the recreation area by adding the Scarper Ridge property.
The primary action is the expansion of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. This is achieved through a boundary adjustment to include the Scarper Ridge property, as defined by a specific map.
The bill itself is short and focused, directly addressing the boundary adjustment with clear references to existing law and a specific map for clarification.
Expected Effects
The inclusion of Scarper Ridge into the Golden Gate National Recreation Area will likely lead to increased recreational opportunities for the public. It may also enhance conservation efforts in the area.
This change could also affect local land use and property values near the expanded boundary. The National Park Service will likely assume management responsibilities for the added land.
Ultimately, the bill aims to preserve and protect the Scarper Ridge property by incorporating it into the National Recreation Area.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced Recreational Opportunities: The inclusion of Scarper Ridge provides more space for outdoor activities.
- Conservation: Protects the natural resources and biodiversity of the Scarper Ridge area.
- Increased Property Value: Potentially increases property values in the surrounding areas due to the proximity to the expanded recreation area.
- Tourism: May attract more tourists to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
- Preservation of Cultural Heritage: Scarper Ridge may have historical or cultural significance that will be preserved.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Land Use Restrictions: Private landowners near the new boundary may face restrictions on land use.
- Increased Traffic and Congestion: More visitors could lead to traffic and congestion in the area.
- Management Costs: The National Park Service will incur additional costs for managing the expanded area.
- Possible Environmental Impact: Increased human activity could negatively impact the environment if not managed properly.
- Loss of Local Control: Local communities may have less control over land use decisions in the Scarper Ridge area.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The proposed act appears to align with the US Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate federal lands. The act does not appear to infringe upon any individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights.
Furthermore, the act promotes the general welfare by expanding recreational opportunities and conserving natural resources. This aligns with the Preamble's goal of promoting the general welfare.
However, the Fifth Amendment's Takings Clause could be relevant if the boundary adjustment significantly impacts private property rights, potentially requiring compensation.
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).