Roadside Pollinator Program Amendments Act
Summary
The Roadside Pollinator Program Amendments Act aims to improve and reauthorize the pollinator-friendly practices on roadside highways and rights-of-way program. It amends title 23 of the United States Code, focusing on expanding eligibility for participation in the program and increasing funding. The bill also emphasizes consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Indian Tribes in developing pollinator-friendly plans.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to increased participation in roadside pollinator programs by including more non-profit organizations and federally recognized Indian Tribes. The increased funding, from $2,000,000 to $5,000,000 annually, should allow for more extensive implementation of pollinator-friendly practices. Stronger consultation requirements aim to improve the ecological effectiveness and cultural sensitivity of these programs.
Potential Benefits
- Increased pollinator habitats along roadsides.
- Expanded eligibility for non-profit organizations to participate in the program.
- Enhanced consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
- Greater involvement of Indian Tribes in project planning.
- Increased funding for pollinator-friendly practices.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased bureaucracy due to additional consultation requirements.
- Possible delays in project implementation due to expanded consultation processes.
- Risk of funds being disproportionately allocated to administrative costs rather than direct pollinator habitat creation.
- Limited scope focusing solely on roadside habitats, potentially neglecting other critical pollinator habitats.
- The act does not address the root causes of pollinator decline, such as pesticide use.
Constitutional Alignment
The act aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it promotes environmental conservation and supports agricultural productivity, both contributing to the well-being of the nation. Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8) provides a basis for federal involvement in highway-related environmental programs. The Act 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).