Policy Impact Analysis - 117/HR/7551

Bill Overview

Title: Housatonic Wild and Scenic River Act of 2022

Description: This bill designates specified segments of the Housatonic River in Connecticut as components of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. The designation of the river segments must not impact or alter the existing terms of permitting, licensing, or operation of the Falls Village Hydroelectric Generating Station located in Falls Village, Connecticut, or the Bulls Bridge Hydroelectric Generating Station located in New Milford, Connecticut. The designation of the river segments must also not preclude the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission from licensing, relicensing, or otherwise authorizing the operation or continued operation of those facilities. The authority of the Department of the Interior to acquire lands for the river segments shall be limited to acquisition by donation or acquisition with the consent of the owner, and subject to the additional criteria set forth in the Housatonic River Management Plan. No land or interest in land may be acquired for the river segments by condemnation.

Sponsors: Rep. Hayes, Jahana [D-CT-5]

Target Audience

Population: People living near, recreating on, or benefiting from conservation of the Housatonic River, Connecticut

Estimated Size: 100000

• The Housatonic River runs through Connecticut, meaning the primary geographic area affected will be this state.
• Connecticut has a population of around 3.6 million people, but the specific area impacted will be smaller.
• The Wild and Scenic designation impacts local communities, recreation opportunities, environmental quality, cultural values, and local businesses along the river.
• Recreational users, such as kayakers, fishermen, and hikers, will be impacted.
• Residents and local governments in the areas surrounding the designated segments of the Housatonic River may see changes in land use and management priorities.

Reasoning

• The Housatonic Wild and Scenic River Act of 2022 affects a specific geographic area in Connecticut, primarily impacting those living near or benefiting from the river.
• Given the budget and scope, the policy will likely have low to moderate impacts on people, with variances depending on proximity and engagement with the river.
• Recreational users like kayakers, fishermen, and hikers may experience a more immediate benefit from improved environmental quality.
• Local residents might see effects in terms of land management and conservation benefits, but these may not directly translate into significant changes in wellbeing scores yet.
• There is a potential for long-term economic and environmental benefits which might reflect on future wellbeing assessments.
• Connecticut's population is relatively small, but those directly interacting with the river represent an even smaller subset. This selective impact limits the immediate reach of the policy.

Simulated Interviews

Cost Estimates

Key Considerations

• The mandatory voluntary acquisition of land minimizes forced displacement and major cost burdens.
• Impact on hydroelectric facilities and energy generation is negligible due to explicit protections in the bill.
• Federal, state, and local cooperation is required for effective implementation of the river management plans.