A bill to require the collection of certain data relating to Bureau of Land Management land acquisitions, and for other purposes.
Impact
The implementation of SB3042 is expected to result in significant changes in how land acquisition data is handled within the BLM. By requiring detailed reporting and data collection, the bill is designed to create a more systematic approach to monitoring land acquisitions. This aligns with broader trends in government accountability where oversight of federal actions is crucial for public trust. Moreover, it serves to inform policymakers and the public about land management practices and decisions of the BLM, which can have implications for environmental stewardship and resource allocation.
Summary
SB3042 aims to enhance the transparency and accountability of land acquisitions managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Introduced in the Senate, the bill requires the Secretary of the Interior to collect centralized data related to land acquisitions. This includes details about the methods of acquisition and types of interests acquired. The bill mandates that this information be reported to Congress annually, starting one year after the enactment of the legislation. Through these requirements, SB3042 seeks to establish a clearer understanding of how land is being managed and acquired within federal oversight.
Contention
Despite the supportive framework of SB3042, the bill could face contention regarding the bureaucratic nature of data collection and potential overreach into local land management practices. Critics may argue that increased reporting requirements could lead to constraints that hinder the BLM's ability to execute timely land acquisitions. Additionally, stakeholders advocating for local control over land management may express concerns that a centralized data approach may overlook localized needs and priorities, complicating the agency's relationship with state and local governments.
Acre In, Acre Out Act This bill prescribes a new requirement for any acquisition of land by the Department of the Interior or the Department of Agriculture that would result in a net increase of total land acreage under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Bureau of Land Management, or the Forest Service. The department concerned must offer for sale an equal number of acres of federal land that is under the same jurisdictional status. The bill exempts from this requirement any easements acquired to facilitate management of federal lands. Land sold pursuant to this bill shall be offered for sale at fair market value (based on local comparable sales), with monthly price reductions if the land is not sold in six months. All net proceeds from the sale of federal lands pursuant to this bill shall be deposited directly into the Treasury for reduction of the public debt.
A bill to require the Director of the Bureau of Land Management to withdraw a rule of the Bureau of Land Management relating to conservation and landscape health.
A bill to amend the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 to authorize certain construction activities on public lands, and for other purposes.