Summary
Requires the government to sell about 3,400 acres of federal land to La Paz County, Arizona, to be used for solar energy and creating jobs.
What problem does this solve?
La Paz County needs land for solar energy projects to create jobs, but the federal government owns the suitable land. This law directs the government to sell the land to the county at a fair price so it can be developed.
Who does this affect?
- Residents of La Paz County, Arizona
- Solar energy companies
- Colorado River Indian Tribes
What does this law do?
Requires sale of federal land
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to sell approximately 3,400 acres of federal land to La Paz County, Arizona, as soon as the county requests it.
Mandates fair market price
Ensures the county pays the fair market value for the land. The price will be set by an official appraisal following federal standards.
Protects tribal cultural artifacts
Requires the county and any future owners to work with the Colorado River Indian Tribes to find and protect tribal artifacts. Any unearthed items may be reburied by the tribe.
Excludes sensitive areas from the sale
Prevents any land with important cultural, environmental, wildlife, or recreational resources from being included in the sale.
Stops new mining claims
Withdraws the specified federal land from being used for any new mining or mineral leasing activities.
What is the real world impact?
•
Promotes local economic growth and renewable energy
Allows a rural county to acquire land needed for solar energy projects. This helps the local economy by creating jobs and supports the development of clean energy sources.
When does this start?
The land transfer will happen as soon as possible after La Paz County officially requests it from the Secretary of the Interior.