Northern Arizona Protection Act
Summary
The Northern Arizona Protection Act aims to nullify Presidential Proclamation 10606, which established the Baaj Nwaavjo I'tah Kukveni-Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument. This act also seeks to withdraw certain lands in Arizona from mineral entry. The bill restricts future monument designations in the specified area without express authorization from Congress.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the Presidential Proclamation establishing the national monument would be nullified. This would reopen the area to potential mineral entry and development. Future monument designations would require congressional approval, shifting power from the executive to the legislative branch.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially increased access to mineral resources within the withdrawn lands.
- Could stimulate local economies through mining and related industries.
- Reinforces congressional authority over land designations.
- May reduce perceived federal overreach in land management.
- Could lead to more diverse land use options.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential environmental damage from renewed mineral extraction.
- Loss of protected status for culturally and ecologically significant areas.
- Possible negative impact on tourism related to the Grand Canyon National Monument.
- Could strain relationships with Native American tribes who consider the area sacred.
- May set a precedent for challenging other national monument designations.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's attempt to nullify a Presidential Proclamation raises questions regarding the separation of powers. While Congress has broad legislative authority under Article I, Section 1, the President also has authority to manage federal lands, sometimes delegated by Congress. The Antiquities Act, which was used to establish the monument, is an example of such delegation. This bill seeks to reclaim that authority in this specific instance.
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).