S.1321 - Moab UMTRA Project Transition Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1321, the Moab UMTRA Project Transition Act of 2025, aims to transfer the Moab site to Grand County, Utah, after remedial action completion. This transfer is contingent upon the Secretary of Energy's determination of sufficient remediation and adherence to regulatory or use restrictions necessary for human health and safety. The bill amends the Strom Thurmond National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999.
Expected Effects
The bill will result in Grand County, Utah, gaining control of the Moab site, potentially opening it up for local use and development, subject to certain restrictions. The federal government, specifically the Department of Energy, will retain certain water rights necessary for ongoing remediation efforts and regulatory compliance.
Potential Benefits
- Potential for economic development in Grand County through the use of the transferred land.
- Local control over the site, allowing for community-driven decisions regarding its future use.
- Continued federal responsibility for remediation and safety, ensuring public health is protected.
- Addresses long-term environmental concerns related to uranium mill tailings.
- Streamlines management of the site by transferring it to a local entity.
Potential Disadvantages
- Grand County is prohibited from reconveying the land to private entities or non-profit organizations, limiting potential development options.
- The Secretary of Energy retains significant control through regulatory restrictions and water rights, potentially hindering local decision-making.
- The transfer is contingent on the Secretary of Energy's determination of sufficient remediation, which could be delayed or subject to changing standards.
- Potential for unforeseen environmental liabilities to be transferred to Grand County if remediation is not fully effective.
- The bill does not address potential funding mechanisms for Grand County to manage the site after the transfer.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it aims to address environmental concerns and promote local economic development. The property clause (Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2) grants Congress the power to dispose of and regulate territory or other property belonging to the United States. The bill's provisions for retaining water rights and imposing restrictions on land use reflect a responsible approach to property disposal, ensuring continued federal oversight where necessary to protect public health and safety.
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).