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Legislative bills

La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act Passed in Congress

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The House of Representatives has passed the La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act, a bill that seeks to convey 3,400 acres of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land in Arizona to La Paz County. The bill, introduced by Rep. Paul Gosar (R-AZ), aims to promote rural economic development and renewable energy production in the county. The legislation has been met with bipartisan support, with several lawmakers praising its potential to create jobs and stimulate economic growth.

Key Takeaways:

  • The La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act (H.R. 1043) has been passed in the House of Representatives.
  • The bill conveys 3,400 acres of BLM land in La Paz County, Arizona, to the county for rural economic development and renewable energy production.
  • The conveyance is subject to valid existing rights and terms and conditions determined by the Secretary of the Interior.
  • The county will be required to pay the fair market value of the land, as determined by an appraisal, plus all costs related to the conveyance.
  • The bill respects the land's cultural and Tribal significance, requiring consultation with the Colorado River Indian Tribes if any Tribal artifacts are uncovered.
  • The legislation is a win-win for the county and the federal government, providing economic benefits to the county while also generating revenue for the federal government.
  • The bill has been praised by lawmakers from both parties, who see it as a step towards promoting renewable energy and economic development in rural areas.

Statistics:

  • 3,400 acres of BLM land will be conveyed to La Paz County, Arizona.
  • The county has a median household income of $49,000 per year and a population of nearly 17,000 residents.
  • The bill is expected to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the county.
  • The county's cash receipts consist of 78% of crops, such as sugarcane and alfalfa hay.
  • The federal government will receive revenue from the sale of land under this section.

Sources:

  • H.R. 1043, La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act, 117th Cong. (2021) (text of bill)
  • Congressional Record, H3499-H3500 (June 2023) (House proceedings)
  • Testimony of Rep. Paul Gosar, H.R. 1043, La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act, 117th Cong. (2021) (video testimony)

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