This bill would withdraw Federal land shown on the Bureau of Land Management map titled "Proposed Withdrawal Chaco Culture National Historic Park Surrounding Area" (dated January 6, 2022) from new public land entries, mining claims, and mineral, mineral materials, and geothermal leasing. It defines "covered lease" as an oil or gas lease where drilling has not started, the lease is not producing in paying quantities, and the lease is not in a certified cooperative or unit plan. Covered leases that meet that definition would automatically terminate and could not be extended. Land acquired after enactment within the mapped area is also included. The Secretary of the Interior may convey or exchange withdrawn Federal land to an Indian Tribe in accordance with an approved resource management plan. The withdrawal does not affect mineral rights on trust or allotment land and does not prevent improvements or rights-of-way for water, power, utilities, or roads to assist nearby communities.
If enacted, the bill would stop new mining claims and new Federal mineral or geothermal leasing on the lands shown on the Withdrawal Map. Certain non-producing oil and gas leases in that area would end automatically and could not be extended. The Secretary may transfer or exchange withdrawn land to Indian Tribes under approved management plans. Existing tribal mineral rights on trust or allotted lands remain unchanged. The Withdrawal Map will be available for public inspection at BLM offices.
No publicly available information. The bill text does not include cost estimates or funding details.
Supporters say the withdrawal would protect archaeological, sacred, and historic resources around Chaco Culture National Historical Park, preserve the area's night sky and visitor experience, and address impacts from past and renewed oil and gas development. The bill cites the cultural affiliation of local Pueblo and other Indian Tribes and the need to protect ceremonial and cultural uses in the Greater Chaco region.
No publicly available information. The bill text does not include statements from opponents.