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H.R. 4716·119th Congress·Introduced Jul 23, 2025

To transfer administrative jurisdiction of certain Federal land in Saratoga Springs, Utah, from the Secretary of the Interior to the United States Postal Service for construction of a post office, and for other purposes.

IntroducedPublic Lands and Natural ResourcesSubstantive
View bill text
Sponsor
Rep. Owens, Burgess [R-UT-4]
Committees
Natural Resources Committee (primary)
Last action
Mar 18, 2026

Bottom line

H.R. 4716 facilitates the construction of a new post office in Saratoga Springs, Utah, by transferring federal land to the USPS.

What it actually does

This bill mandates the transfer of administrative jurisdiction over approximately 20.32 acres of federal land in Saratoga Springs, Utah, from the Secretary of the Interior to the United States Postal Service (USPS). Following this transfer, the USPS is required to construct and commence operation of a new post office on this land within two years of the bill's enactment.

Proponents argue

Proponents argue that this bill directly addresses a critical need for expanded postal services in the rapidly growing community of Saratoga Springs, Utah. They contend that by streamlining the land transfer process, the bill ensures the timely establishment of essential public infrastructure, improving convenience and access for local residents and businesses.

Opponents contend

Opponents might argue that while the need for postal services is valid, transferring federal land without a broader review of alternative sites or potential environmental impacts could set a precedent. They might also raise concerns about the financial implications for the USPS in constructing and operating a new facility, especially if the agency faces ongoing budget challenges.

The bill is very short and easy to read, making it highly accessible for anyone wishing to understand its provisions quickly.

Section 1(a)

Transfer of Administrative Jurisdiction

prominently featuredstraightforward

This provision legally transfers control of a specific parcel of federal land, approximately 20.32 acres in Saratoga Springs, Utah, identified as Parcel #58:022:0021, from the Department of the Interior to the United States Postal Service. This transfer is specifically for the purpose of allowing the USPS to use the land for a postal facility.

GroupImpactMechanismScale
GroupDepartment of the InteriorImpactLoss of administrative jurisdictionMechanismStatutory transfer of land controlScaleSpecific parcel of land
GroupUnited States Postal Service (USPS)ImpactAcquisition of land for developmentMechanismStatutory transfer of land controlScaleSpecific parcel of land

Supporters argue

Supporters argue this transfer is a necessary administrative step to enable the USPS to fulfill its mission of providing essential services. They contend it efficiently reallocates federal assets to meet public demand in a growing community.

Critics contend

Critics might argue that such transfers should undergo a more rigorous public review process to ensure the land's highest and best use, considering potential ecological or recreational values that might be displaced.

Tradeoffs

The primary tradeoff is between maintaining federal land under Interior's jurisdiction (potentially for conservation or other uses) versus dedicating it to a specific public service facility like a post office.

Section 1(b)

Construction and Operation of Post Office

prominently featuredstraightforward

This section mandates that the United States Postal Service must construct a new post office on the transferred land and begin its operation within two years from the date this bill becomes law. This sets a clear deadline for the development and activation of the new postal facility.

About this analysis. AI-Generated from the official bill text and available committee reports. Gaps in available data are noted explicitly. Verify important details with the official Congress.gov record.

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