Bill > S211

This bill amends the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 to provide temporary relief for ranchers during extreme natural events or disasters by allowing them to use vacant grazing allotments when their original grazing lands become unusable. Specifically, the bill enables the Secretary of Agriculture (for National Forest System land) and the Secretary of the Interior (for public lands) to grant holders of grazing permits or leases temporary access to unused grazing areas if their original allotments are impacted by events like extreme weather, drought, wildfire, infestation, or blight. The temporary use is contingent on the vacant allotment being appropriate for grazing and would be subject to specific terms and conditions based on local ecological conditions and previous land management practices. The bill requires the relevant federal agencies to coordinate and establish guidelines within one year of enactment to streamline this process. Importantly, the temporary allotment use would not alter the rancher's original permit, preference for returning to their original land, or future grazing authorization. The goal is to provide ranchers with flexibility and support during challenging environmental conditions while maintaining responsible land management practices.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/211/all-info