H.R.1043 - La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1043, the "La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act," directs the Secretary of the Interior to convey approximately 3,400 acres of federal land in Arizona to La Paz County. The purpose is to facilitate solar energy development and job creation within the county. The conveyance is subject to valid existing rights, terms and conditions deemed necessary by the Secretary, and payment of fair market value by La Paz County.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R.1043 would transfer federal land to La Paz County, potentially enabling solar energy projects. This could lead to increased renewable energy production and new employment opportunities in the region. The Act also includes provisions for protecting tribal cultural artifacts during and after the land conveyance.
Potential Benefits
- Potential for increased solar energy production in Arizona.
- Creation of new jobs in the renewable energy sector within La Paz County.
- Economic development opportunities for La Paz County.
- Protection of tribal cultural artifacts through required coordination and reburial efforts.
- Potential revenue generation for the federal government through the sale of the land at fair market value.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential loss of access to federal land for recreational or other uses.
- Environmental concerns related to large-scale solar energy development, such as habitat disruption.
- The cost to La Paz County for the land and associated conveyance expenses.
- Possible disturbance of undiscovered cultural or environmental resources despite the protective measures.
- Dependence on the success of future solar projects to realize the promised economic benefits.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Property Clause (Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to dispose of and regulate federal territory and property. The bill specifies the terms and conditions of the land conveyance, including the requirement for fair market value payment, which is consistent with Congress's authority over federal lands. 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).