S.2098 - Southcentral Foundation Land Transfer Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Southcentral Foundation Land Transfer Act of 2025 (S.2098) directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to convey approximately 3.372 acres of land in Anchorage, Alaska, to the Southcentral Foundation (SCF). This land is intended for use in connection with health and social services programs. The conveyance must occur within two years of the Act's enactment and is to be made via warranty deed without requiring consideration from SCF or imposing obligations on them, except for reasonable easements for the Secretary.
Expected Effects
The Act will transfer ownership of the specified land from the federal government to the Southcentral Foundation. This transfer aims to support the SCF's provision of health and social services in Anchorage, Alaska. The Act also addresses environmental liability, assigning responsibility for pre-existing contamination to the Secretary of Health and Human Services, while holding SCF responsible for any contamination occurring after the transfer of control.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced healthcare services: The land transfer will enable SCF to expand or improve its health and social services programs, directly benefiting the local community.
- Economic development: Construction and operation of new or expanded facilities could lead to job creation in the healthcare sector.
- Reduced bureaucracy: Streamlines land ownership, potentially accelerating the development of needed facilities.
- Environmental protection: Clarifies environmental liability, encouraging responsible land management.
- Improved community well-being: Better access to health and social services contributes to the overall well-being of the community.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for misuse: While unlikely, there's a risk the land could be used for purposes other than intended, though the Act specifies its use for health and social services.
- Limited scope: The Act only benefits a specific region and organization, not addressing broader national issues.
- Environmental concerns: While clarifying liability, there's a potential for disputes regarding the source and timing of contamination.
- Opportunity cost: The land could have been used for other public purposes, although its dedication to health services is a clear benefit.
- Dependence on SCF: The community's access to these services becomes reliant on the continued operation and success of the Southcentral Foundation.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Preamble of the Constitution), as it aims to promote the health and well-being of a specific community. The transfer of federal property is within the powers of Congress, as outlined in Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2, which grants Congress the power to dispose of and regulate territory or other property belonging to the United States. There are no apparent violations of individual rights or freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights.
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).