S.785 - Alaska Native Vietnam Era Veterans Land Allotment Extension Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The Alaska Native Vietnam Era Veterans Land Allotment Extension Act aims to extend the existing program that allows Alaska Native veterans who served during the Vietnam era to apply for land allotments. This bill specifically amends Section 1119(b)(3)(B) of the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act to extend the application period from a 5-year period to a 10-year period.
The extension provides additional time for eligible veterans to navigate the application process and potentially receive land allotments. This extension acknowledges the challenges veterans may face in accessing and utilizing this program.
The bill was introduced in the Senate by Mr. Sullivan and Ms. Murkowski and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill, if enacted, would be to lengthen the period during which Alaska Native Vietnam era veterans can apply for land allotments. This would directly impact those veterans who have not yet applied but are eligible for the program.
It could also lead to an increase in the number of applications processed and land allotted under the program. This extension could provide more veterans the opportunity to benefit from the original intent of the land allotment program.
Ultimately, the bill aims to honor the service of these veterans by providing them with increased access to land allotments.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Opportunity: Extends the application window, allowing more veterans to apply.
- Recognition of Service: Acknowledges the service of Alaska Native Vietnam era veterans.
- Potential Economic Benefit: Land allotments can provide economic opportunities for veterans.
- Cultural Preservation: Land ownership can support traditional ways of life for Alaska Natives.
- Addresses Past Inequities: Helps to rectify historical injustices related to land access for Native populations.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Increased Bureaucracy: Processing additional applications may strain existing resources.
- Environmental Concerns: Land allotments could potentially lead to development that impacts the environment.
- Limited Scope: The bill only addresses the application period and does not resolve other potential issues with the program.
- Uncertainty of Land Availability: The availability of suitable land for allotment may be limited.
- Potential for Intra-Community Conflict: Allotments could lead to disputes over land rights and resources within Native communities.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it seeks to provide benefits to a specific group of veterans. Congress has broad authority under Article I, Section 8 to make laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers, including those related to military veterans and Native American affairs.
There are no apparent conflicts with individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution. The extension of the land allotment program does not infringe upon any specific constitutional provision.
However, the Fifth Amendment's Takings Clause could be relevant if the land allotments involve taking private property for public use. In this case, the government would need to provide just compensation.
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).