S.1870 - Rim of the Valley Corridor Preservation Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1870, the Rim of the Valley Corridor Preservation Act, proposes to adjust the boundary of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area to include the Rim of the Valley Corridor. This involves amending Section 507(c) of the National Parks and Recreation Act of 1978 to incorporate specific land, water, and interests as depicted on designated maps. The bill also addresses the administration of the acquired land and the operation of utilities and water resource facilities within the expanded area.
The Act aims to enhance conservation efforts and recreational opportunities in the region. It ensures that existing utilities and water facilities can continue operations while minimizing their impact on the environment.
The bill was introduced in the Senate by Mr. Schiff and Mr. Padilla and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
Expected Effects
The Act will expand the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, adding the Rim of the Valley Corridor. This expansion will likely lead to increased conservation of natural resources and enhanced recreational opportunities for the public.
It will also require the Secretary of the Interior to administer the new land as part of the existing National Recreation Area. Utility and water resource facilities will need to operate in a manner that minimizes environmental impact.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced Conservation: Protects valuable natural resources and biodiversity within the Rim of the Valley Corridor.
- Increased Recreational Opportunities: Provides more areas for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities for the public.
- Preservation of Cultural Heritage: May help protect historical and cultural sites within the expanded area.
- Economic Benefits: Could lead to increased tourism and related economic activity in the region.
- Improved Environmental Quality: Aims to reduce the impact of utilities on the environment.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Land Use Restrictions: Private landowners within the Rim of the Valley Corridor may face new restrictions on land use and development.
- Increased Government Oversight: Expanded federal oversight could lead to bureaucratic delays and increased costs.
- Possible Conflicts with Existing Utilities: Balancing conservation goals with the operation of existing utilities could lead to conflicts.
- Acquisition Costs: The government may incur significant costs in acquiring land or interests in land within the corridor.
- Impact on Local Communities: Changes in land management could affect local communities and their traditional uses of the land.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the US Constitution, particularly the Property Clause (Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2), which grants Congress the power to manage and dispose of federal territory and property. The expansion of the National Recreation Area falls under the umbrella of managing federal lands for public benefit.
Furthermore, the Act does not appear to infringe upon any individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights. It does not establish a religion, abridge freedom of speech, or infringe on the right to bear arms.
The Act's focus on conservation and recreation aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution's 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).