S.1777 - Joshua Tree National Park Expansion Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The Joshua Tree National Park Expansion Act aims to amend the California Desert Protection Act of 1994. It proposes expanding the boundary of Joshua Tree National Park by approximately 20,149 acres and redesignating the Cottonwood Visitor Center as the 'Dianne Feinstein Visitor Center'.
The bill also addresses a technical correction related to land descriptions within the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act. It outlines procedures for land acquisition, prioritizing donations and exchanges, especially from the State of California or its political subdivisions.
The bill was introduced in the Senate by Mr. Padilla and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
Expected Effects
The Act would increase the size of Joshua Tree National Park, potentially enhancing its ecological value and recreational opportunities. Redesignating the visitor center would honor Dianne Feinstein's contributions.
The transfer of administrative jurisdiction from the Bureau of Land Management to the National Park Service would consolidate management under a single agency. This could streamline operations and improve resource protection.
The technical correction aims to rectify an error in existing legislation, ensuring accurate land descriptions.
Potential Benefits
- Increased conservation of desert ecosystems and biodiversity within the expanded park boundaries.
- Enhanced recreational opportunities for visitors due to the larger park area.
- Potential for increased tourism revenue for local communities surrounding the park.
- Streamlined management of the expanded park area under the National Park Service.
- Recognition of Dianne Feinstein's contributions to conservation through the visitor center redesignation.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential conflicts with existing land uses or rights within the expansion area.
- Costs associated with land acquisition, park management, and infrastructure development.
- Possible negative impacts on Bureau of Land Management programs due to the transfer of jurisdiction.
- Concerns from local communities or stakeholders regarding the expansion's impact on their activities.
- The redesignation of the visitor center might be seen as politically motivated by some.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the Property Clause (Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to manage and regulate federal lands and property. The expansion of the national park falls under this authority.
The Act also aligns with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 1) by promoting conservation and recreation, which can be considered beneficial to the public. The act does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
However, the act should ensure due process and just compensation if private lands are acquired through purchase or exchange, as per the Fifth Amendment.
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).