S.909 - La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.909, the La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act, directs the Secretary of the Interior to convey approximately 3,400 acres of federal land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to La Paz County, Arizona. The purpose of this conveyance is to facilitate solar energy development and job creation within the county. The land transfer is subject to certain conditions, including payment of fair market value, protection of tribal cultural artifacts, and exclusion of land with significant resources.
Expected Effects
The Act aims to boost La Paz County's economy through solar energy projects. This could lead to increased renewable energy production and new employment opportunities. However, the conveyance is contingent on the county meeting specific requirements, such as paying fair market value and protecting cultural resources.
Potential Benefits
- Potential for increased solar energy production in La Paz County.
- Creation of new jobs in the renewable energy sector.
- Economic development opportunities for the local community.
- Revenue generation for the federal government through the sale of the land.
- Encourages local control and development of resources.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential disturbance of tribal cultural artifacts during development.
- Loss of federal land for other potential uses.
- Costs associated with the land conveyance for La Paz County.
- Environmental impacts from solar energy development (e.g., habitat disruption).
- The Act may bypass standard land planning requirements.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the Property Clause (Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2), which grants Congress the power to dispose of and regulate federal territory. The Act also addresses potential impacts on tribal cultural resources, reflecting the federal government's trust responsibility towards Native American tribes. The Act does not appear to infringe on any individual liberties or rights guaranteed 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).