H.R. 1565: Voluntary Public Access Improvement Act of 2025
This bill, known as the Voluntary Public Access Improvement Act of 2025, is aimed at reauthorizing and enhancing a program related to public access to certain lands, specifically those that are part of the wetland reserve easements, under the Food Security Act of 1985. Below are the key components and provisions of the bill:
Objectives of the Bill
- The bill seeks to improve public access to lands that are designated for conservation under wetland reserve easements.
- It intends to encourage state and tribal governments to enter into agreements that promote public access to these lands.
Funding Provisions
- The bill authorizes mandatory funding of $150 million from the Commodity Credit Corporation for the implementation of this program over the fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
- Additionally, it allocates $3 million specifically for enhancing public access to lands under wetland reserve easements during the same period.
Program Reauthorization
- This legislation is set to reauthorize the voluntary public access and habitat incentive program, which aims to provide financial assistance to landowners who open their lands for public use while managing for wildlife habitat.
Implementation
- The Secretary of Agriculture is responsible for carrying out the provisions of this bill, ensuring that funds are appropriately allocated to meet the objectives outlined.
- State and tribal cooperation is highlighted as a key factor in the successful implementation of the public access enhancements.
Impact on Landowners
- Landowners with wetland reserve easements may benefit from financial incentives to allow public access to their properties.
- This program seeks to balance land conservation efforts with public recreational opportunities.
Support for Conservation and Recreation
- The bill emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts while providing communities with opportunities to engage in outdoor recreational activities.
- By promoting public access, it aims to foster appreciation for natural resources and environmental stewardship.
Conclusion of Provisions
The Voluntary Public Access Improvement Act of 2025 supports both environmental conservation and public engagement with natural habitats by incentivizing cooperation between landowners, state governments, and tribal organizations.
Relevant Companies
- None found
This is an AI-generated summary of the bill text. There may be mistakes.
Sponsors
6 bill sponsors
Actions
3 actions
Date | Action |
---|---|
Mar. 28, 2025 | Referred to the Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit. |
Feb. 25, 2025 | Introduced in House |
Feb. 25, 2025 | Referred to the House Committee on Agriculture. |
Corporate Lobbying
0 companies lobbying
None found.
* Note that there can be significant delays in lobbying disclosures, and our data may be incomplete.
Potentially Relevant Congressional Stock Trades
No relevant congressional stock trades found.