Washington, DC - The U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee convened today to address pending legislation and appoint members to subcommittees for the 118th Congress. Several measures were ordered reported, covering a range of issues related to conservation, wilderness areas, water rights, and land management.

One of the bills discussed was S. 594, which aims to prioritize the completion of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. According to Mr. Heinrich, the bill's sponsor, this legislation is essential for protecting and preserving the natural beauty and recreational opportunities provided by the trail.

Another significant bill was S. 636, introduced by Mr. Bennet, which seeks to establish the Dolores River National Conservation Area and the Dolores River Special Management Area in Colorado. This measure aims to safeguard private water rights in the state while promoting conservation efforts.

Ms. Cortez Masto proposed S. 1118, the Open Access Evapotranspiration (OpenET) Data Program, which gained approval from the committee. This bill aims to establish a program that provides access to data on evapotranspiration, a critical component of water resource management.

Mrs. Murray presented S. 1254, which focuses on designating and expanding wilderness areas in Olympic National Forest, Washington. The legislation also designates certain rivers in Olympic National Forest and Olympic National Park as wild and scenic rivers.

Mr. Barrasso introduced S. 1348, which aims to redesignate land within certain wilderness study areas in Wyoming. This bill seeks to balance the need for conservation with other land management priorities.

Mr. Bennet also proposed S. 1634, a bill that calls for the designation of certain wilderness areas, recreation management areas, and conservation areas in Colorado. This measure aims to protect and preserve natural landscapes while providing recreational opportunities for the public.

One of the bills with a specific focus on Wyoming is S. 1662, introduced by Mr. Barrasso. The bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to convey the Pilot Butte Power Plant to the Midvale Irrigation District in Wyoming.

Mr. Padilla's S. 1776 is a bill aimed at protecting and investing in certain federal land in California. This legislation seeks to ensure the preservation and sustainable management of these lands for future generations.

Ms. Murkowski proposed S. 1889, a bill that recognizes certain Alaska Native communities and settles specific claims under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act. This measure acknowledges the importance of supporting Alaska Native communities and their cultural heritage.

Mr. Wyden introduced S. 1890, a bill that calls for the establishment of a grazing management program on federal land in Malheur County, Oregon. The legislation aims to strike a balance between conservation and the needs of local communities.

Mr. Lee presented S. 1955, which seeks to amend the Central Utah Completion Act to authorize expenditures for water conservation measures in the Great Salt Lake basin. This bill recognizes the importance of preserving water resources in the region.

Mr. Hickenlooper's S. 2247 focuses on reauthorizing the Bureau of Reclamation to provide funding for endangered and threatened fish recovery programs in the Upper Colorado and San Juan River Basins.

Mr. Crapo proposed S. 2581, a bill aimed at extending the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000. This legislation seeks to provide continued support for rural communities in managing their natural resources.

Ms. Murkowski also presented S. 2615, a bill that aims to amend the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act by exempting Village Corporations from conveying land to the State of Alaska for the establishment of Municipal Corporations.

Other bills considered include S. 3033, S. 3036, S. 3044, S. 3045, and S. 3046, which cover topics such as land withdrawal, land transfer, wilderness redesignation, and the collection of marina fees.

In addition to the legislative measures, the Committee appointed members to various subcommittees for the 118th Congress, ensuring a diverse representation of expertise and perspectives.

The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee's business meeting showcased a range of bills addressing critical issues related to conservation, land management, and water resources. These measures aim to strike a balance between protecting our natural heritage and meeting the needs of local communities. The Committee's deliberations mark an important step in advancing these legislative efforts and ensuring the sustainable use of our nation's resources for future generations.

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.energy.senate.gov/2023/12/manchin-energy-and-natural-resources-committee-clear-pending-legislation