S.277 - To release a Federal reversionary interest and convey mineral interests in Chester County, Tennessee, and for other purposes. (119th Congress)
Summary
S.277 addresses a land encroachment issue involving Bethel Baptist Church and State-owned land within Chickasaw State Forest in Chester County, Tennessee. The bill directs the Secretary of Agriculture to release a Federal reversionary interest and convey mineral interests to the State of Tennessee. This action aims to resolve the encroachment and facilitate clear land ownership.
Expected Effects
The bill will transfer control of approximately 0.62 acres of land, including mineral rights, to the State of Tennessee. This transfer occurs without requiring appraisals, reports, or environmental reviews, streamlining the process. The State will be responsible for covering the administrative costs associated with the release and conveyance.
Potential Benefits
- Resolves a land encroachment issue, providing clarity for Bethel Baptist Church and the State.
- Simplifies land management by consolidating ownership with the State of Tennessee.
- Reduces potential bureaucratic hurdles by waiving appraisal and review requirements.
- May facilitate local economic development if the State chooses to utilize the mineral rights.
- Addresses a specific local issue, demonstrating responsiveness to community needs.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential loss of future revenue for the Federal government from mineral rights.
- Lack of environmental review could overlook potential ecological impacts.
- Sets a precedent for waiving standard procedures for land transfers.
- Limited direct benefit to the broader American public.
- Administrative costs borne by the United States, even though reimbursed by the state, still represent an initial outlay.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly 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. The specific action of releasing a reversionary interest and conveying mineral rights falls under this enumerated power. There are no apparent infringements on individual rights or liberties as defined 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).