H.R.3286 - Mammoth Cave National Park Boundary Adjustment Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3286, the Mammoth Cave National Park Boundary Adjustment Act of 2025, proposes to modify the boundary of Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky. This involves adjusting the land acquisition budget and authorizing the Secretary of the Interior to acquire approximately 551.14 acres of land for inclusion in the park. The bill aims to enhance the park's protected area.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to an expansion of the Mammoth Cave National Park's boundaries. This expansion could result in increased tourism, improved conservation of natural resources, and potential economic benefits for the surrounding communities. It also adjusts the amount available for land acquisition to account for inflation.
Potential Benefits
- Increased conservation of natural resources within the expanded park boundaries.
- Potential for increased tourism and related economic activity in the region.
- Preservation of cultural and historical sites within the acquired land.
- Enhanced recreational opportunities for visitors.
- Adjustment for inflation ensures fair compensation for land acquisition.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential displacement or impact on private landowners within the proposed expansion area.
- Increased management and maintenance costs for the National Park Service.
- Possible restrictions on land use for adjacent property owners.
- Potential delays or legal challenges related to land acquisition.
- The bill does not specify funding sources for the land acquisition, which could strain existing park budgets.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Property Clause of the U.S. Constitution (Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2), which grants Congress the power to manage and dispose of federal territory and property. The expansion of a National Park falls under the umbrella of managing federal property for public benefit. The bill also involves appropriations, which is a power granted to Congress under Article I, Section 8, Clause 1.
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).