S.1198 - Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act aims to designate specific National Forest System land, National Park System land, and public land in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming as wilderness, wild and scenic rivers, wildland recovery areas, and biological connecting corridors. This bill seeks to preserve undeveloped land and protect biodiversity in the Northern Rockies Bioregion. It also addresses issues such as wildlife habitat fragmentation and the need for ecological reserve systems.
Expected Effects
The bill would significantly increase the amount of protected land in the Northern Rockies, restricting resource extraction and development in designated areas. This could lead to improved water quality, enhanced wildlife habitats, and increased recreational opportunities. However, it may also impact industries reliant on resource extraction, such as timber and mining.
Potential Benefits
- Environmental Preservation: Protects biodiversity, water quality, and wildlife habitats in the Northern Rockies.
- Recreational Opportunities: Enhances opportunities for hunting, fishing, and wilderness-based recreation.
- Economic Diversification: Promotes sustainable economics through wilderness-based recreation and tourism.
- Scientific Research: Preserves areas for onsite studies in biology, geology, and other sciences.
- Tribal Access: Ensures nonexclusive access by Indian Tribes to protected areas for traditional cultural and religious purposes.
Potential Disadvantages
- Economic Impact: Restricts resource extraction activities, potentially leading to job losses in timber, mining, and energy sectors.
- Land Use Restrictions: Limits development and infrastructure projects in designated areas.
- Management Complexity: Requires coordination between multiple federal agencies and stakeholders.
- Potential for Litigation: May lead to legal challenges from industries and landowners affected by the designations.
- Increased Management Costs: Managing and monitoring the expanded wilderness areas and corridors would require additional funding.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with Congress's power to manage federal lands under Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2 (the Property Clause). The designation of wilderness areas and the regulation of land use are within the scope of this power. The Act also recognizes tribal rights, which aligns with the federal government's trust responsibility to Indian tribes. However, potential conflicts could arise if the restrictions on land use infringe upon individual property rights, potentially raising concerns under the Fifth Amendment's Takings Clause.
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).