Does the Forest Service Need to Transfer Lands in Colorado That Were Already Leased? (H.R. 1554)

What is H.R. 1554?

(Updated June 27, 2017)

This bill would require the Forest Service to convey 148 acres of federal land in Colorado near Elkhorn Ranch and the White River National Forest to a private entity. The transfer would take place within 180 days of this legislation’s enactment.

As structured, the agreement allows the federal government to continue collect rent and royalty payments from the existing oil and gas lease on the lands. If that lease expires, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) would not be allowed to offer the parcel for lease.

Argument in favor

It makes sense for this land to be conveyed since there is an existing lease for oil and gas extraction on the site, and the government will still collect rent and royalties.

Argument opposed

The federal government shouldn’t have made this land available for energy extracting oil and gas in the first place. Once the lease expires, the federal government won’t make any more money.

Impact

People who would visit the conveyed lands or businesses using the oil and gas lease, the Forest Service, and the BLM.

Cost of H.R. 1554

The CBO estimates that this bill would increase federal revenue through lease fees and royalties by less than $500,000 per year.

Additional Info

In-Depth: The House Natural Resources Committee passed this legislation without objection through unanimous consent.

Media:

• House Natural Resources Committee
• CBO Cost Estimate