H.R.3937 - Wabeno Economic Development Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3937, the Wabeno Economic Development Act, directs the conveyance of approximately 14 acres of National Forest System land in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest to Tony's Wabeno Redi-Mix, LLC. The conveyance is contingent upon the company offering market value as determined by an appraisal and covering all associated costs. The bill also mandates a comprehensive review of federal permitting processes for stone, sand, and gravel development on federal lands.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of this bill is to facilitate economic development in the Wabeno area by enabling Tony's Wabeno Redi-Mix, LLC to expand its operations. Additionally, the review of federal permitting processes could lead to streamlined procedures for resource development on federal lands.
Potential Benefits
- Potential for increased economic activity and job creation in the Wabeno area.
- Streamlined permitting processes for stone, sand, and gravel development could reduce project timelines and costs.
- The conveyance is subject to market value appraisal, ensuring fair compensation to the government.
- The bill requires Tony's Wabeno Redi-Mix, LLC to cover all costs associated with the conveyance, including appraisal and survey expenses.
- The comprehensive review of permitting processes could identify inefficiencies and lead to improved resource management.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential environmental impacts from the development of stone, sand, and gravel resources.
- Loss of public access to the conveyed land within the National Forest System.
- The conveyance benefits a specific private entity, which could raise concerns about fairness.
- The bill does not explicitly address potential negative impacts on local communities or ecosystems.
- The streamlining of permitting processes could potentially weaken environmental safeguards.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
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 property. The requirement for market value appraisal and the inclusion of terms and conditions to protect the interests of the United States suggest an effort to exercise this power responsibly. However, the lack of explicit provisions for environmental protection or community consultation could raise concerns about whether the bill adequately promotes the general welfare, as stated in the Preamble.
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).