H.R. 7143: Roadside Pollinator Program Amendments Act

This bill is known as the Roadside Pollinator Program Amendments Act. Its main purpose is to update and enhance a program that promotes pollinator-friendly practices along highways and roadsides. Here's a detailed breakdown of what the bill would do:

Key Provisions

• The bill amends Section 332 of Title 23 in the United States Code, which is the section governing the existing pollinator-friendly practices program.
• It expands the eligibility criteria for organizations that can participate in this program to include certain nonprofit organizations. Specifically, these organizations must be registered as tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
• The bill states that consultations are required with the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service when certain decisions are made regarding this program.
• It redefines which entities can apply for funds and support under the program by specifying that eligible entities include state departments of transportation, federal land management agencies, and qualifying nonprofit organizations.
• The documentation and planning for projects must involve input from Indian Tribes located within a certain distance from proposed projects, focusing on those Tribes who have land nearby.
• The maximum funding cap for individual projects is increased from $150,000 to $500,000, allowing for larger initiatives to be undertaken.
• Additionally, the overall funding authorized for the program is raised significantly from $2 million per year to $5 million per year for the fiscal years from 2026 through 2031.

Goals of the Bill

• To enhance biodiversity and support the health of pollinator species that are essential for ecosystem functions and agriculture.
• To facilitate better collaboration between governmental departments, nonprofit organizations, and Indian Tribes concerning roadside management and pollinator habitats.
• To provide sufficient financial resources to encourage more extensive and effective pollinator-friendly practices along highways and other rights-of-way.

Implementation and Oversight

• The bill emphasizes proper planning and consultation to ensure that the implementation of pollinator-friendly practices is effective and beneficial to local ecosystems.
• It requires that projects developed under this program must adhere to guidelines that protect and enhance the habitats of pollinators.

Potential Impact

• By increasing funding and redefining eligible organizations, the bill aims to boost efforts to create habitats that support pollinators, which can lead to broader environmental benefits.

Relevant Companies

• None found