The bill is expected to have significant implications for land management and use in Ridgecrest. The Federal land conveyed to the city will not be eligible for class II or class III gaming as regulated under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. This restriction aims to mitigate the potential for gaming expansion in the area, preserving the intent for the land to serve public interests rather than private profit through gaming activities. Management of the exchanged land will follow the rules applicable to the Owens Peak Wilderness Area, ensuring that natural resources and public access are prioritized.
Summary
House Bill 6718, known as the City of Ridgecrest Land Exchange Act, aims to facilitate a land exchange involving approximately 500 acres of Federal land and 640 acres of non-Federal land in California. The bill stipulates that if the City of Ridgecrest conveys its non-Federal land to the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary must accept the offer and transfer the corresponding Federal land to the City within one year. This act is designed to expedite the process of land management and transformation for the city.
Contention
There are notable points of contention regarding the implications of this exchange. Critics could argue that the bill may favor the interests of the local government at the expense of broader ecological concerns or alternative land-use options. Additionally, while the bill includes provisions for protecting existing rights of way and ensuring access for non-motorized recreation, some stakeholders might express concerns over how these rights will be enforced post-exchange, and whether ecological considerations will be adequately prioritized.
Reforms the organizational structure for the Department of Transportation and Development including its duties, powers, and responsibilities of officers and employees (EN INCREASE SD EX See Note)