Us Congress House Bill HB4377

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/27/23
• Refer: 6/27/23
• Refer: 7/11/23
• Report Pass: 7/26/23

Caption

To amend the Military Lands Withdrawal Act of 1999 with respect to extensions, additions, and revisions to the Barry M. Goldwater Range in Arizona.

Impact

The bill seeks to revoke prior land withdrawals and configure management of specific mining claims so that they fall under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This aspect of the bill is significant as it will shift the management of these lands to conservation-focused governance, highlighting a move toward greater ecological preservation within key military training areas. Such revisions could potentially influence both military operations and local land use policies in Arizona, wherein military and ecological priorities must be balanced.

Summary

House Bill 4377 aims to amend the Military Lands Withdrawal Act of 1999, specifically concerning the extensions, additions, and revisions to the Barry M. Goldwater Range in Arizona. This bill proposes to update the total acreage of the range, which is expected to increase from approximately 1,650,200 acres to about 1,656,491.94 acres, incorporating an additional 2,365.89 acres in Maricopa County. The modifications outlined in HB4377 reflect adjustments to federal land management practices and bolster military training capabilities within the range.

Contention

Notable points of contention around HB4377 may arise from stakeholders assessing the balance between military readiness and environmental conservation. Critics may argue that expanding military land could jeopardize local ecosystems, while supporters might emphasize the necessity of operational efficiency for military readiness. The interactions between wildlife management and military activities in the region are crucial to understanding the broader implications of the bill.