Bill

HR 35

URGING THE DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES AND OTHER STATE AGENCIES TO WORK WITH COMMITTED COMMUNITY GROUPS TO CO-STEWARD COMMUNITY FORESTS LOCATED ON PUBLIC LANDS FOR THE BETTERMENT OF THE STATE'S FORESTS AND COMMUNITIES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 7 co-sponsors

HR 35 urges state agencies to partner with community groups for sustainable management of public community forests, enhancing ecosystems and community well-being.

Reported from WAL (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 1701), recommending adoption.

#communityforests #dlnr #stateagencies

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Bill Summary · HR 35

Summary of HR 35: Community Forest Stewardship Resolution

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HR 35
Title: Urging the Department of Land and Natural Resources and Other State Agencies to Work with Committed Community Groups to Co-Steward Community Forests Located on Public Lands for the Betterment of the State's Forests and Communities
Status: Reported from the House Committee on Water and Land (WAL), recommending adoption.
Introduced: January 3, 2025
Classification: Resolution
Subject: Community Forests, Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), State Agencies

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of HR 35 is to encourage collaboration between the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) and community groups to manage and protect community forests situated on public lands. The resolution aims to enhance the health of these forests and improve the well-being of the communities that rely on them.

Key Provisions

Collaboration with Community Groups: The resolution emphasizes the importance of partnerships between state agencies and local community organizations for effective forest stewardship.
Focus on Public Lands: It specifically targets community forests located on public lands, recognizing their significance for ecological health and community engagement.
Sustainable Management Practices: The resolution advocates for sustainable practices in managing these forests, which may include conservation efforts, educational programs, and community involvement in decision-making processes.

Impact

Affected Parties: The resolution will primarily impact state agencies, particularly the DLNR, and various community groups engaged in environmental stewardship and conservation efforts.
Community Benefits: By fostering collaboration, the resolution aims to enhance local ecosystems, promote biodiversity, and strengthen community ties through shared stewardship responsibilities.

Legislative Timeline

January 3, 2025: Introduced in the House and referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
February 13, 2025: Passed in the House with a vote of 264 - 155.
March 28, 2025: Resolution adopted in final form with unanimous support, except for four representatives who were excused from voting.
Ongoing Actions: The resolution has been referred to the Senate and is currently under consideration by the Committee on the Judiciary.

Related Legislation

HR 35 has companion bills, including:
- S 512: A Senate counterpart addressing similar issues.
- HRES 5 and HCR 40: Additional resolutions related to community forest stewardship.

This resolution represents a significant step towards enhancing the management of community forests through collaborative efforts, ultimately benefiting both the environment and local communities.

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