Seedlings for Sustainable Habitat Restoration Act of 2025
Summary
The Seedlings for Sustainable Habitat Restoration Act of 2025 amends the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. It authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture, through the Chief of the Forest Service, to enter into contracts, grants, and agreements for ecosystem restoration activities. These activities include native seed collection/maintenance and seedling production.
Expected Effects
This act aims to enhance ecosystem restoration by providing resources for native seed and seedling production. It will allow the Forest Service to collaborate with various entities, including state forestry agencies, tribes, and higher education institutions. The changes to the Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program will further support these efforts.
Potential Benefits
- Increased availability of native seeds and seedlings for restoration projects.
- Collaboration between federal agencies, state and local entities, and tribal organizations.
- Support for institutions of higher education in restoration efforts.
- Potential for improved ecosystem health and biodiversity.
- Enhancement of the Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for bureaucratic delays in awarding contracts and grants.
- Risk of mismanagement or misuse of funds by recipient organizations.
- Possible unintended consequences on local ecosystems due to restoration activities.
- Limited scope, focusing primarily on seed and seedling production.
- Dependence on continued funding and political support for long-term success.
Constitutional Alignment
The act appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the Constitution, as it aims to promote environmental health and sustainability. Congress has the power to enact laws necessary and proper for executing its enumerated powers, which can include environmental conservation measures. The bill 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).