What does Preamble of Chaco Cultural Heritage Area Protection Act of 2025 do?

This bill aims to withdraw and protect certain Federal land in New Mexico The bill was introduced to the House of Representatives It was referred to the Committee on Natural Resources

What does SHORT TITLE. of Chaco Cultural Heritage Area Protection Act of 2025 do?

This bill is formally titled the Chaco Cultural Heritage Area Protection Act of 2025

What does FINDINGS. of Chaco Cultural Heritage Area Protection Act of 2025 do?

This section outlines findings related to the Greater Chaco region, spanning New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, and Colorado. The Chaco Culture National Historical Park, a World Heritage Site, is recognized for its ancient structures and historical significance as a cultural center. The region contains extensive archaeological resources, including roads, villages, shrines, and communication sites, many of which are linked to the Chacoan people. Several Pueblos and Indian Tribes claim cultural affiliation with and descent from the Chacoan people. The area is also recognized for its exceptional stargazing conditions and has implemented night sky protection initiatives. Federal recognition of the region's importance dates back over 110 years, with designations including National Monuments and National Historical Parks. Natural gas development and renewed oil exploration pose potential impacts on cultural resources, visitor experiences, and local communities. A mineral withdrawal around the Chaco Culture National Historical Park is suggested to protect resources and visitor experiences. Additional studies and protective measures are recommended to address health, safety, and environmental impacts on affected communities and tribes. The Greater Chaco region continues to be used for ceremonial and cultural purposes by several tribes.

What does DEFINITIONS. of Chaco Cultural Heritage Area Protection Act of 2025 do?

This section defines key terms used within the Act. A 'covered lease' is defined as an oil or gas lease on Federal land where drilling hasn't started before the end of the primary term, is not producing in paying quantities, and isn't under a valid unit plan. “Federal land” includes Federal land within the Chaco Cultural Heritage Withdrawal Area, as depicted on the Withdrawal Map, and land acquired by the Federal Government within that area after the Act's enactment. “Federal land” excludes trust land as defined in 38 U.S.C. section 3765. The 'Secretary' refers to the Secretary of the Interior. The 'Withdrawal Map' is a specific map prepared by the Bureau of Land Management dated January 6, 2022, related to a notice of proposed withdrawal.

What does WITHDRAWAL OF CERTAIN FEDERAL LAND IN THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO. of Chaco Cultural Heritage Area Protection Act of 2025 do?

Federal land in New Mexico is withdrawn from certain uses The withdrawal includes entry, appropriation, and disposal under public land laws The Secretary may convey or exchange Federal land with an Indian Tribe Non-producing oil and gas leases are terminated and may not be extended Withdrawn land is still available for certain improvements and rights-of-way

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Chaco Cultural Heritage Area Protection Act of 2025

Last updated: 4/10/2025 · Introduced: 4/10/2025

Author: Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-NM)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill withdraws specified federal land in New Mexico from entry, appropriation, and disposal under public land laws to protect cultural and historical resources.
The bill terminates non-producing oil and gas leases on withdrawn federal land and prevents their extension.
The Secretary of the Interior is authorized to convey or exchange withdrawn federal land with Indian Tribes.

119th Congressin committeeS. 1412(In Committee)Official page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 3 more.

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