Bill
HR 1043
HR 1043 transfers 3,400 acres of federal land to La Paz County, boosting solar energy projects and creating jobs while protecting Tribal cultural resources.
The La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act (HR 1043) aims to facilitate the economic development of La Paz County, Arizona, by directing the Secretary of the Interior to convey approximately 3,400 acres of federal land to the county. This land transfer is intended to support the expansion of solar energy projects and create job opportunities in the region.
Land Conveyance: The bill authorizes the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to convey 3,400 acres of land to La Paz County at fair market value. This land is adjacent to a previously conveyed site for a large-scale solar farm.
Cultural and Environmental Protections: The bill includes provisions to protect Tribal artifacts and cultural resources. La Paz County must coordinate with the Colorado River Indian Tribes to ensure that any significant cultural items are preserved and that Tribal representatives can rebury unearthed artifacts.
Administrative Costs: La Paz County is responsible for covering the administrative costs associated with the land conveyance and must pay the appraised value of the land. Proceeds from this transaction will be deposited into the Federal Land Disposal Account.
Public Access: The map detailing the conveyed land will be made available for public inspection at appropriate BLM offices, ensuring transparency in the process.
La Paz County is predominantly federal land, with approximately 95% of its territory managed by federal, state, or Tribal authorities. The county's economy relies heavily on tourism and agriculture, and it faces challenges in diversifying its economic base. The previous successful conveyance of 5,935 acres for solar development has demonstrated the potential for renewable energy projects to provide economic benefits. The additional land conveyed under HR 1043 is expected to enhance these benefits and support local job creation.
Economic Development: The bill is anticipated to bolster the local economy by facilitating the development of one of the largest solar projects in the United States, which is expected to generate 1,000 megawatts of solar power and significant battery storage capacity.
Job Creation: The expansion of solar energy infrastructure is expected to create numerous jobs in construction, maintenance, and related sectors, providing much-needed employment opportunities for residents.
This summary provides an overview of HR 1043, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on La Paz County and its residents.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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