Technical corrections only. The engrossed version of the bill (v2) reflects its passage in the Senate, with no substantive changes to the legislative text compared to the introduced version (v1). All sections and provisions remain identical.
Big Bend National Park Boundary Adjustment Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Cornyn, John [R-TX]
- Committees
- Energy and Natural Resources Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jun 23, 2025
Bottom line
This bill enables Big Bend National Park to expand its boundaries through voluntary land acquisitions, enhancing conservation and recreational opportunities while strictly protecting private property rights.
What it actually does
This bill authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire approximately 6,100 acres of land or interests in land to adjust the boundary of Big Bend National Park in Texas. The acquisition must occur through donation or exchange, explicitly prohibiting the use of eminent domain or condemnation. Once acquired, these lands will be incorporated into the park and administered under existing National Park Service laws and regulations.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill facilitates the expansion of a vital national park, allowing for enhanced conservation of natural and cultural resources, improved ecological connectivity, and expanded public access for recreation. They emphasize the bill's commitment to private property rights by mandating voluntary acquisition methods (donation or exchange) and explicitly prohibiting eminent domain, ensuring that landowners are willing participants in any transaction.
Opponents contend
While direct opposition to voluntary land acquisition for national parks is rare, some critics might express general concerns about the expansion of federal land ownership, even through voluntary means, or the potential administrative costs associated with managing additional acreage. Others might argue that prohibiting eminent domain could limit the Park Service's ability to acquire strategically important parcels if voluntary negotiations fail, potentially hindering optimal park management or conservation goals.
The bill is exceptionally short and clearly written, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its provisions and implications quickly.
Section 3(a)
Authorization for Land Acquisition
This section grants the Secretary of the Interior the authority to acquire approximately 6,100 acres of land or interests in land. These lands are specifically identified on a map titled 'Big Bend National Park, Proposed Boundary Adjustment' (numbered 155/167,296, dated November 2022). The acquisition methods are limited to donation or exchange, meaning the government cannot force a sale.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision is crucial for the long-term health and management of Big Bend National Park, allowing for the consolidation of land, protection of critical habitats, and improved visitor experiences. The voluntary nature of acquisition ensures respect for private property rights while achieving conservation goals.
Critics contend
Some might argue that any expansion of federal land, even through voluntary means, reduces the local tax base or shifts land management away from local control. However, specific opposition to voluntary acquisition for national parks is generally limited.
Tradeoffs
The primary tradeoff is balancing the desire for park expansion and conservation with the absolute protection of private property rights, which might mean some desired parcels cannot be acquired if owners are unwilling to donate or exchange.
Section 3(c)
Park Boundary Revision and Administration
This section specifies that once the Secretary of the Interior successfully acquires any land or interests in land under the Act, the official boundary of Big Bend National Park must be revised to include these new areas. Furthermore, these newly acquired lands will be managed and administered by the National Park Service as an integral part of the park, adhering to all existing applicable laws and regulations governing national parks.
Section 3(d)
Prohibition on Eminent Domain
This section explicitly states that the Secretary of the Interior is forbidden from using eminent domain or condemnation powers when carrying out the land acquisition authorized by this Act. This means that all land acquisitions for the Big Bend National Park boundary adjustment must be voluntary on the part of the landowner.