S.1662 - Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program Reauthorization Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1662, the Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program Reauthorization Act of 2025, aims to reauthorize and amend the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009. The bill focuses on enhancing forest restoration efforts through collaborative projects. It was introduced in the Senate on May 7, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry.
The proposed amendments include expanding the scope of restoration activities to address pathogens, incorporating standardized monitoring, and including federal staffing plans to support collaborative efforts. The bill also seeks to promote innovative implementation mechanisms and increase ecological restoration activities across various land ownerships.
Furthermore, the bill increases the maximum project duration and funding limits, extending the program's authorization through 2034. These changes are intended to improve the effectiveness and reach of forest restoration projects.
Expected Effects
The reauthorization and amendments are likely to result in expanded and more effective forest restoration projects across the United States. This includes increased funding for individual projects and a longer program lifespan.
It will also likely lead to enhanced collaboration between federal agencies, state, tribal, and private landowners in addressing forest health and wildfire risks. The inclusion of standardized monitoring and federal staffing plans should improve project oversight and support.
Ultimately, the bill aims to improve watershed health, protect drinking water sources, and reduce the risk of uncharacteristic wildfires, benefiting both the environment and communities.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced forest health and resilience through collaborative restoration projects.
- Reduced risk of uncharacteristic wildfires, protecting communities and ecosystems.
- Improved watershed health and drinking water sources.
- Increased collaboration between federal, state, tribal, and private landowners.
- Support for local economies through restoration activities and job creation.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased federal spending, potentially impacting the national budget.
- Potential for bureaucratic delays in implementing the program.
- Risk of disagreements among stakeholders in collaborative projects.
- Possible unintended consequences from altering existing forest management practices.
- Limited scope, focusing primarily on forest restoration and potentially neglecting other environmental concerns.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the US Constitution, as it aims to promote the well-being of the environment and communities through forest restoration. Congress has the power to enact legislation that provides for the general welfare of the United States.
Additionally, the bill's focus on protecting natural resources and mitigating wildfire risks can be seen as an exercise of Congress's authority under the Property Clause (Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2), which grants Congress the power to manage and regulate federal lands.
There are no apparent conflicts with individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
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).