HR2323-119

What This Bill Does

This bill adjusts the boundary of Big Bend National Park in Texas to allow the addition of approximately 6,100 acres of land. The Secretary of the Interior can only acquire these lands through voluntary donation or exchange - the government cannot use eminent domain or condemnation to force property owners to sell.

Who Benefits and How

The National Park Service benefits by gaining authority to expand Big Bend National Park, one of Texas's premier natural areas. Conservation groups and park visitors would benefit from additional protected land. Willing landowners within the boundary adjustment area would have the option to voluntarily sell or exchange their property to the federal government, potentially at favorable terms.

Who Bears the Burden and How

This bill imposes minimal burdens. Since land acquisition is limited to voluntary transactions only, no private landowners can be forced to give up their property. There is no direct appropriation of taxpayer funds in the bill itself, though future land purchases would require separate funding. Administrative costs to the National Park Service for managing acquired lands would be modest.

Key Provisions

• Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire approximately 6,100 acres for Big Bend National Park
• Limits acquisition methods to donation or exchange only - explicitly prohibits use of eminent domain
• Requires acquired lands to be administered as part of the Park under existing National Park Service laws
• References a specific boundary map (dated November 2022) to define the expansion area
• Provides for public inspection of the boundary map at National Park Service offices