WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

S 3695

Santini-Burton Modernization Act of 2026

119th Congress Introduced by Catherine Cortez Masto and 3 co-sponsors

Senate bill modernizes federal land management policies affecting conservation, resource use, and public access across millions of federal acres.

Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests, and Mining. Hearings held.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 3695

Legislative bill overview

S 3695, the Santini-Burton Modernization Act of 2026, updates and modernizes federal land management policies, likely addressing conservation, resource management, or public land use frameworks established under earlier legislation. The bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, with initial hearings held in February 2026. Specific legislative language would clarify whether it expands, restricts, or reorganizes existing federal land authorities.

Why is this important

Federal land management directly affects millions of acres across the American West, influencing conservation priorities, resource extraction, recreational access, and local economic development. How these lands are governed impacts wildlife protection, water resources, climate resilience, and the balance between environmental preservation and economic use. Modernization efforts often reflect shifting priorities in energy policy, climate strategy, and public land stewardship.

Potential points of contention

  • Conservation vs. resource extraction: Disagreement over whether modernization should prioritize environmental protection or permit more mining, logging, or energy development on federal lands
  • State vs. federal authority: Tension between federal land management decisions and state/local interests, particularly in Western states where federal lands constitute large portions of state territory
  • Public access and recreation: Questions about how changes affect hunting, fishing, hiking, and other recreational uses versus preservation of pristine wilderness areas

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

Sign in to ask a question.