WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SCR 4002

A concurrent resolution urging Congress to enact legislation allowing a landowner to terminate a perpetual easement owned by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service within the state.

69th Legislative Assembly (2025-26) Introduced by Cole Conley and 5 co-sponsors

North Dakota urges Congress to let landowners terminate perpetual easements held by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on their property.

Filed with Secretary Of State 04/03
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SCR 4002

Legislative bill overview

SCR 4002 is a concurrent resolution from North Dakota that formally urges the U.S. Congress to pass legislation enabling private landowners to terminate perpetual easements held by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service within the state. The resolution does not create law itself but serves as a formal request to federal legislators to authorize such termination rights.

Why is this important

Perpetual easements can significantly restrict how landowners use their property, potentially limiting agricultural, development, or other economic activities in perpetuity. This resolution reflects tensions between conservation efforts and property rights, with broad implications for how federal conservation agreements are managed and whether landowners can exit such arrangements. The issue affects the balance between environmental protection and private property control.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights vs. conservation: Easements often protect critical wildlife habitat or wetlands; termination could undermine long-term conservation goals that were the basis for the original agreements
  • Fairness concerns: Landowners who voluntarily accepted easements (often with compensation) could exit commitments, while the government loses protections it relied upon
  • Federal authority: Congressional action would be required, raising questions about whether individual states should determine the fate of federally-managed conservation easements
  • Precedent setting: Allowing termination could encourage similar challenges to other conservation agreements nationwide, potentially weakening environmental protections broadly

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.