4 versions

CosmeticWhat changed in REFERRED IN SENATEcompared with ENGROSSED IN HOUSE (Jul 14, 2025)

Technical corrections only. The only change between v3 and v4 is the addition of the Clerk's name, Kevin F. McCumber, in the attestation section of the bill as it was received and referred in the Senate. There are no substantive policy changes to the text of the bill.

H.R. 900119th CongressIntroduced Jan 31, 2025

Sinkhole Mapping Act of 2025

Passed HouseEmergency ManagementSubstantive

View bill text

Sponsor: Rep. Soto, Darren [D-FL-9]
Committees: Energy and Natural Resources Committee (primary)
Last action: Sep 16, 2026

Bottom line

This bill establishes a federal program within the USGS to proactively identify and map sinkhole-prone areas to aid community planning and emergency management, leveraging existing data and making information publicly accessible.

What it actually does

This bill directs the Director of the United States Geological Survey (USGS) to establish a program focused on sinkhole hazards. The program will study the mechanisms causing sinkholes, including extreme weather and water management changes, and develop maps identifying high-risk zones. It also mandates the use of existing 3D elevation data and the creation of a public website to display these maps and relevant information for community planners and emergency managers.

Proponents argue

Supporters argue that this bill provides critical data and tools for public safety, infrastructure protection, and informed land-use decisions in areas susceptible to sinkholes. They contend that proactive mapping and understanding of sinkhole formation mechanisms will reduce risks and improve emergency preparedness, leveraging existing federal resources efficiently.

Opponents contend

Critics might raise concerns about the potential cost of establishing and maintaining such a federal program, particularly if it is perceived to duplicate efforts already undertaken at state or local levels. They may also point to the 'subject to the availability of appropriations' clause as a potential weakness, suggesting it could lead to an unfunded mandate or delayed implementation if adequate funds are not allocated.

The bill is exceptionally short and clearly written, allowing for quick and complete comprehension of its provisions by any informed reader.

Section 2(a)

Establishment of Sinkhole Hazard Identification Program

prominently featuredstraightforward

This section directs the Director of the United States Geological Survey (USGS) to create a program. This program will study the short-term and long-term factors that lead to sinkhole formation, such as extreme weather events, prolonged droughts causing shifts in water management practices, aquifer depletion, and other major changes in water use. Additionally, it requires the program to develop maps that highlight areas with a higher risk of sinkhole development.

GroupImpactMechanismScale

GroupUnited States Geological Survey (USGS)ImpactNew mandate and responsibilities to establish and operate a national program.MechanismDirects the Director to establish a program to study sinkhole causes and develop risk maps.ScaleNational

GroupCommunities and emergency managers in sinkhole-prone areasImpactIncreased access to critical hazard information for planning and preparedness.MechanismProvision of maps and data to inform land-use decisions and emergency response.ScaleLocal to regional

Supporters argue

Supporters argue this program is essential for understanding and mitigating the significant risks posed by sinkholes, which can cause substantial property damage and endanger lives. By systematically studying mechanisms and mapping risks, communities can be better prepared and make more informed development decisions.

Critics contend

Some might argue that while valuable, this program represents an expansion of federal responsibilities that could potentially be handled more efficiently or appropriately at the state or local level, or that the 'subject to appropriations' clause makes it an unfunded mandate if sufficient funds are not consistently allocated.

Tradeoffs

The tension lies between the clear public safety and infrastructure benefits of such a program and the federal cost implications, especially given the 'subject to appropriations' clause which could lead to delayed or underfunded implementation if not adequately supported.

Section 2(b)

Mandated Use of Existing 3D Elevation Data

mentioned in summarystraightforward

This section specifies that when the USGS develops the sinkhole risk maps, it must utilize existing 3D elevation data. This data is defined by the National Landslide Preparedness Act and is collected under section 5 of that Act. This ensures that the new mapping program leverages previously collected and standardized federal data, promoting efficiency and consistency.

Section 2(d)

Public Accessibility of Sinkhole Maps and Information

prominently featuredstraightforward

This section requires the Director of the USGS to establish and maintain a public website. This website will display the sinkhole risk maps developed under the program and provide other relevant information. The goal is to make this critical data easily accessible for community planners and emergency managers, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding land use, infrastructure development, and emergency response.

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.

CosmeticWhat changed in REFERRED IN SENATEcompared with ENGROSSED IN HOUSE (Jul 14, 2025)

H.R. 900119th CongressIntroduced Jan 31, 2025

Sinkhole Mapping Act of 2025

Passed HouseEmergency ManagementSubstantive

View bill text

Sponsor: Rep. Soto, Darren [D-FL-9]
Committees: Energy and Natural Resources Committee (primary)
Last action: Sep 16, 2026

Bottom line

What it actually does

Proponents argue

Opponents contend

The bill is exceptionally short and clearly written, allowing for quick and complete comprehension of its provisions by any informed reader.

Section 2(a)

Establishment of Sinkhole Hazard Identification Program

prominently featuredstraightforward

GroupImpactMechanismScale

Supporters argue

Critics contend

Tradeoffs

Section 2(b)

Mandated Use of Existing 3D Elevation Data

mentioned in summarystraightforward

Section 2(d)

Public Accessibility of Sinkhole Maps and Information

prominently featuredstraightforward