Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SJR24

Introduced
3/30/23  
Refer
3/30/23  
Engrossed
5/15/23  
Enrolled
9/14/23  

Caption

A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service relating to "Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Endangered Species Status for Northern Long-Eared Bat".

Impact

If enacted, SJR24 would effectively nullify the Endangered Species status conferred to the Northern Long-Eared Bat, impacting federal wildlife protection policies. Supporters of the resolution argue that such measures are critical to minimizing regulatory burdens on landowners and developers. Conversely, opponents contend that this disapproval undermines important conservation efforts required to protect biodiversity and maintain the ecosystems in which these species exist. The vote on the resolution indicates a clear divide among lawmakers regarding the balancing of economic interests and environmental responsibilities.

Summary

SJR24 is a joint resolution of the U.S. Congress that seeks to disapprove a rule set forth by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The rule in question pertains to the designation of the Northern Long-Eared Bat as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act. The resolution signifies Congress's intent to override the regulatory decision made by the agency, arguing against the necessity of federal protection for the species. This bill reflects an ongoing tension between conservation efforts and regulatory relief, with particular implications for land use policies and property rights.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SJR24 is deeply polarized. Proponents view the bill as a necessary step in protecting economic development from what they see as overreaching federal regulations. They believe that local governance should have more authority in managing wildlife protections according to their specific circumstances. Conversely, environmental advocates perceive this resolution as a dangerous move that risks setting a precedent for further rollbacks of protections for vulnerable species. This discord highlights a critical debate regarding the role of government in conservation efforts and how best to achieve a balanced approach to wildlife management.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the arguments regarding the ecological necessity of listing the Northern Long-Eared Bat as endangered, along with concerns about habitat loss and ecological balance. Discussion points have emerged regarding the potential ramifications of SJR24 on local ecosystems, particularly in areas heavily populated with the bat species. The legislative conversation also acknowledged potential economic trade-offs, as the disapproval could promote infrastructure development at the cost of biodiversity preservation. The resolution emphasizes a significant ideological division on how federal laws intersect with local governance and environmental stewardship.

Companion Bills

US HJR49

Same As Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service relating to "Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Endangered Species Status for Northern Long-Eared Bat".

US HR614

Related Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4366) making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes; providing for consideration of the joint resolution (S.J. Res. 9) providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service relating to "Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Lesser Prairie-Chicken; Threatened Status With Section 4(d) Rule for the Northern Distinct Population Segment and Endangered Status for the Southern Distinct Population Segment"; and providing for consideration of the joint resolution (S.J. Res. 24) providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service relating to "Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Endangered Species Status for Northern Long-Eared Bat".

Previously Filed As

US HB366

Korean American Vietnam Allies Long Overdue for Relief Act or the Korean American VALOR Act This bill expands eligibility for specified Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits (e.g., medical and dental care) to certain veterans of the armed forces of South Korea who served in Vietnam between January 9, 1962, and May 7, 1975, or during a time period determined by the VA. The bill authorizes the VA to furnish such benefits under an existing law, which requires (1) a request by South Korea, and (2) a reciprocity agreement that provides for reimbursement of expenses incurred by the VA for the provision of care.

US SB30

Fiscal Year 2023 Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Authorization Act This bill authorizes the Department of Veterans Affairs to carry out specified major medical facility projects during FY2023. The bill also indicates the maximum amount that can be spent on each project.

US HB346

NOTAM Improvement Act of 2023 This bill directs the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to establish the FAA Task Force on NOTAM (notice to air missions required by international or domestic law) Improvement. A NOTAM is a notice containing information essential to personnel concerned with flight operations but not known far enough in advance to be publicized by other means. It states the abnormal status of a component of the National Airspace System. Specifically, the task force must (1) review existing methods for presenting NOTAMs and flight operations information for pilots; (2) review regulations and policies relating to NOTAMs, including their content and presentation to pilots; (3) evaluate and determine best practices to organize, prioritize, and present flight operations information in a manner that optimizes pilot review and retention of relevant information; (4) provide recommendations to improve the presentation of NOTAM information; and (5) report to Congress on its reviews and evaluations.

US HB423

Pala Band of Mission Indians Land Transfer Act of 2023 This bill directs the Department of the Interior to take approximately 721.12 acres of land in San Diego County, California, into trust for the benefit of the Pala Band of Mission Indians, if the tribe transfers title to that land to the United States. The land is made part of the Pala Indian Reservation. The bill generally prohibits gaming on any of the land taken into trust.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.