Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program Amendment Act of 2025
Summary
The Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program Amendment Act of 2025 (H.R. 831) establishes an interest-bearing account for non-federal contributions to the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program. This fund will hold contributions from state parties and any interest earned on those contributions. The Act aims to improve the management and availability of funds for conservation efforts along the Lower Colorado River.
Expected Effects
This act will create a dedicated fund within the Treasury for non-federal contributions to the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program. It allows the Secretary of the Treasury to invest these funds in interest-bearing obligations of the United States. This should streamline the management of funds and potentially increase the resources available for conservation through earned interest.
Potential Benefits
- Streamlined fund management: Centralizes non-federal contributions in a dedicated account.
- Potential for increased funding: Allows for investment of funds, generating additional resources through interest.
- Reduced state party risk: Transfers investment risk from state parties to the federal government upon deposit.
- Improved resource availability: Ensures funds are available to the Secretary without further appropriation.
- Supports conservation efforts: Provides financial resources for the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for investment losses: Although investments are limited to US obligations, there is still a risk of loss.
- Dependence on appropriations for interest expenditure: Interest earned is subject to the availability of appropriations.
- Limited scope: The act focuses specifically on the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program, potentially neglecting other conservation needs.
- Bureaucratic hurdles: Transferring funds through the Treasury might introduce delays or administrative costs.
- Potential for misallocation: Funds could be directed inefficiently if not managed effectively.
Constitutional Alignment
This act appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the U.S. Constitution, as it aims to promote conservation and responsible management of natural resources. By establishing a dedicated fund for the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program, the act seeks to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of the river ecosystem, which can be considered a matter of general welfare. The act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).