This bill releases to the University of Utah, without consideration, the reversionary interest of the United States in approximately 593 acres of specified nonfederal land.
Impact
The release of this reversionary interest has implications for state laws surrounding land ownership and use, particularly in the context of educational institutions. It enables the University of Utah to manage the land without federal oversight, which could streamline administrative processes and empower the institution to make decisions that directly benefit its campus and surrounding community. The change signifies a step towards local governance over educational land use, allowing for potential economic development or academic expansion on the property.
Summary
House Bill 365 proposes the release of the United States' reversionary interest in approximately 593 acres of non-Federal land to the University of Utah, without compensation. The bill addresses specific parcels of land located in Salt Lake City, which are delineated in a previous patent issued in 1968. By eliminating the federal interest, the bill aims to provide the University with complete ownership and control over the designated land, thereby facilitating potential development, expansion, or enhanced use of the property by the University.
Contention
While the bill proceeds through legislative channels, potential points of contention include concerns about the future use of the land and its alignment with community interests. Skeptics may question whether the University will prioritize public good and access to the land versus private interests. Additionally, the lack of compensation for the land transfer raises questions about valuation and equity, especially if the land holds significant development potential. Engaging with local stakeholders throughout the process could mitigate opposition and foster collaboration on future developments.
Chisholm National Historic Trail and Western National Historic Trail Designation Act This bill designates (1) the Chisholm National Historic Trail, and (2) the Western National Historic Trail. The Department of the Interior shall administer any portion of these trails that is located on nonfederal land only (1) with the voluntary consent of the owner of the nonfederal land, and (2) if the portion qualifies for certification as a component of the applicable trail. The approval by an owner of applicable nonfederal land of a certification agreement shall satisfy the voluntary consent requirement. A certification agreement may be terminated at any time. The establishment of these trails does not authorize any person to enter private property without the consent of the private property's owner. Interior may accept a donation of land or an interest in land for these trails, with specified exceptions. Land or an interest in land may not be acquired for these trails by eminent domain or condemnation.
Pala Band of Mission Indians Land Transfer Act of 2023 This bill directs the Department of the Interior to take approximately 721.12 acres of land in San Diego County, California, into trust for the benefit of the Pala Band of Mission Indians, if the tribe transfers title to that land to the United States. The land is made part of the Pala Indian Reservation. The bill generally prohibits gaming on any of the land taken into trust.
American Sovereignty and Species Protection Act This bill limits the protection of endangered or threatened species to species that are native to the United States. In addition, the bill prohibits certain funding for endangered or threatened species from being used to acquire lands, waters, or other interests in foreign countries.