Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB2972

Introduced
9/28/23  

Caption

A bill to require the Secretary of the Interior to repay States for amounts expended by States to operate units of the National Park System during a Government shutdown.

Impact

If enacted, SB 2972 would establish a clearer financial framework and responsibility between state governments and the federal government concerning the operation of national parks during shutdowns. This would mean less disruption to both the parks' operations and state budgets during such crises, contributing positively to local tourism and economy, as state-managed parks would remain operational.

Summary

Senate Bill 2972 seeks to alleviate some of the financial burdens that states face during government shutdowns by requiring the Secretary of the Interior to reimburse states for expenses incurred in operating units of the National Park System. The bill aims to provide financial support to states that continue to operate these areas when federal funding is unavailable, ensuring that parks remain open and accessible to the public even when federal agencies cannot support them due to funding lapses.

Contention

While the bill primarily provides support, it might also invoke debates about fiscal responsibility and the nature of support between state and federal governments. Some legislators might argue whether the federal government should prioritize reimbursement to states over other budgetary needs, while some may express concerns that this could set a precedent for future fiscal policies, potentially impacting how federal funds are allocated during budget debates.

Companion Bills

US HB5743

Same As To require the Secretary of the Interior to repay States for amounts expended by States to operate units of the National Park System during a Government shutdown.

Previously Filed As

US HB5743

To require the Secretary of the Interior to repay States for amounts expended by States to operate units of the National Park System during a Government shutdown.

US HB5696

Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2023

US HB5758

To amend title 31, United States Code, to reimburse employees of the Federal Government and the District of Columbia, Federal contractors, and the States for certain costs incurred as a result of a Government shutdown, and for other purposes.

US HB5814

Affordable Housing Stability During Shutdowns Act of 2023

US SB135

Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2023

US HB5728

Government Shutdown Impact Report Act of 2023

US HB10533

To authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to administratively transfer covered parcels of National Forest System land to the Secretary of the Interior to be held in trust for the benefit of Indian Tribes.

US HJR93

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to prohibit Members of Congress from receiving compensation for any period during which a Government shutdown is in effect.

US HB2165

To provide for a limitation on availability of funds for U.S. Department of Interior, National Park Service, Operation of the National Park System for fiscal year 2024.

US HB325

Harmful Algal Bloom Essential Forecasting Act This bill requires the Harmful Algal Bloom Operational Forecast System to continue to operate during a government shutdown by designating certain services related to the system as excepted services under the Anti-Deficiency Act.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.