Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB7221

Introduced
2/5/24  
Refer
2/5/24  

Caption

Wildlife Corridors and USDA Conservation Programs Act of 2024

Impact

If enacted, HB7221 would significantly influence state regulations concerning habitat conservation and wildlife management. It enables the Secretary to develop technical assistance and best practices for landowners participating in conservation programs, ensuring that their land remains conducive for wildlife movement. This could result in enhanced environmental resilience and ensure long-term species survival by creating more cohesive habitats that allow wildlife to traverse between isolated areas, thereby facilitating gene flow and species interactions necessary for ecological stability.

Summary

House Bill 7221, officially named the 'Wildlife Corridors and USDA Conservation Programs Act of 2024,' seeks to foster the conservation and designation of habitat connectivity areas as American wildlife corridors. The bill mandates the Secretary of Agriculture, in collaboration with relevant agencies, to identify such connectivity areas within lands participating in federal conservation programs. This initiative is aimed at promoting the movement of wildlife across landscapes crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ecological health while addressing the growing concerns regarding habitat fragmentation.

Contention

There may be points of contention regarding the bill, particularly around land use rights and the potential economic implications for landowners who may have to adhere to new conservation designations. Some lawmakers or advocacy groups might argue that while the intention to protect wildlife habitats is noble, it could impose restrictions on agricultural and development operations, thus leading to conflicts between environmental goals and economic interests. Discussions will likely revolve around balancing ecological needs with the rights and needs of landowners involved in conservation efforts.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB3329

Wildlife Corridors and USDA Conservation Programs Act of 2025

US HB9776

Wildlife Corridors and Habitat Connectivity Conservation Act of 2024

US HB7408

America’s Wildlife Habitat Conservation Act

US AB2320

Wildlife Connectivity and Climate Adaptation Act of 2024: wildlife corridors: fish passage.

US SB1372

Wildlife corridors and connectivity: Wildlife and Biodiversity Protection and Movement Act of 2020.

US HB2025

Wildlife corridors or crossings; action plan and programs.

US S0038

An act relating to conserving habitat corridors and wildlife crossings

US AB1889

Conservation element: wildlife and habitat connectivity.

US HB8836

Wildlife Movement Through Partnerships Act

US HB9945

North American Grasslands Conservation Act of 2024

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