S.1412 - Chaco Cultural Heritage Area Protection Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Chaco Cultural Heritage Area Protection Act of 2025 (S.1412) aims to protect archeological, sacred, and historic resources in the Greater Chaco region of New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, and Colorado. It seeks to withdraw certain Federal land in New Mexico from mineral leasing and development to safeguard the Chaco Culture National Historical Park and surrounding cultural resources. The bill also addresses concerns related to natural gas and oil exploration impacts on local communities and tribal interests.
Expected Effects
The Act would prevent new oil and gas leases on Federal land within the Chaco Cultural Heritage Withdrawal Area. Existing non-producing leases would be terminated, and the land would be withdrawn from future mineral development. The Secretary of the Interior could convey or exchange Federal land with Indian Tribes, and the Act aims to protect tribal mineral rights and allow for infrastructure development.
Potential Benefits
- Protection of significant cultural and historical resources in the Chaco region.
- Preservation of sacred sites and landscapes important to Pueblo Indian Tribes, the Navajo Nation, the Hopi Tribe, and other Indian Tribes.
- Potential for improved air and water quality by limiting oil and gas development.
- Support for the local tourism economy centered around the Chaco Culture National Historical Park.
- Recognition and respect for tribal sovereignty and cultural affiliation with the Chacoan people.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential loss of revenue from oil and gas leases on Federal land.
- Possible negative impact on local economies dependent on the energy industry.
- Restrictions on access to mineral resources that could be used for energy production.
- Potential conflicts between environmental protection and energy development interests.
- Possible limitations on private property rights if the withdrawal area affects privately held mineral rights.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, which allows Congress to enact laws that promote the well-being of the nation, including the preservation of cultural heritage. It also acknowledges tribal sovereignty and the federal government's trust responsibility to Indian Tribes, which is supported by established legal precedents. The Act's potential impact on property rights could raise concerns under the Fifth Amendment, but these are mitigated by the 'valid existing rights' 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).