To amend the Public Lands Corps Act of 1993 to modify the cost-sharing requirement for conservation projects carried out by a qualified youth or conservation corps, and for other purposes.
- Sponsor
- Rep. Neguse, Joe [D-CO-2]
- Committees
- Education and Workforce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 1, 2026
Bottom line
This bill shifts a greater portion of the financial burden for public lands conservation projects to the federal government, potentially enabling more projects or reducing local funding strain for youth and conservation corps.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Public Lands Corps Act of 1993 to significantly alter the cost-sharing requirements for conservation projects. It increases the maximum federal share for projects carried out by qualified youth or conservation corps from 75% to 90% and concurrently reduces the minimum non-federal share from 25% to 10%.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this change will make it substantially easier for local and state entities, as well as non-profit conservation corps, to undertake vital conservation projects on public lands by reducing their financial contribution. This could lead to an increase in the number and scope of projects, foster greater environmental stewardship, and provide more opportunities for youth development through hands-on conservation experience, especially for smaller organizations or those in economically disadvantaged areas.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that increasing the federal share to 90% reduces local buy-in and responsibility for projects, potentially leading to less efficient use of funds or projects that are not as locally prioritized. They may also raise concerns about the increased federal expenditure and its impact on the national budget, suggesting that local entities should maintain a more significant financial stake to ensure accountability and alignment with local needs.
The bill is exceptionally short and clear, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its direct impact in a matter of seconds.
Section 1, subsections (1) and (2)
Modification of Cost-Sharing Requirements for Conservation Projects
This provision amends Section 212(a)(1) of the Public Lands Corps Act of 1993. It changes the federal government's maximum share of the cost for conservation projects carried out by qualified youth or conservation corps from 75% to 90%. Concurrently, it reduces the minimum non-federal share from 25% to 10%. This means that for eligible projects, the federal government will now cover a larger portion of the expenses, while local or private partners will contribute a smaller percentage.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this change will significantly ease the financial burden on youth and conservation corps, as well as their state and local partners, making it more feasible to undertake critical conservation work. This could lead to an increase in the number and scope of projects, fostering greater environmental stewardship and providing more opportunities for youth development through hands-on conservation experience.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that increasing the federal share to 90% reduces the incentive for local partners to invest substantially in these projects, potentially leading to less accountability or less alignment with local priorities. They may also argue that this represents an unnecessary increase in federal spending when local entities should be encouraged to take more ownership.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances the goal of increasing conservation project activity and accessibility for corps with concerns about federal expenditure and the level of local financial commitment. It trades a higher federal financial commitment for potentially greater project output and reduced barriers for local partners.