summary
Introduced
In Committee
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
113th Congress
Bill Summary
Preserving Public Access to Cape Hatteras Beaches Act - Requires the Cape Hatteras National Seashore in North Carolina to be managed in accordance with the Interim Protected Species Management Strategy/Environmental Assessment issued by the National Park Service (NPS) on June 13, 2007, for the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Recreational Area until the Secretary of the Interior issues a new final rule that meets the additional restrictions specified below. Bars the imposition of any additional restrictions on pedestrian or motorized vehicular access to any part of the Recreation Area for species protection beyond those in the Interim Management Strategy, other than as specifically authorized pursuant to this Act. Allows the Secretary if, based on peer-reviewed science and after public comment, it is determined that additional restrictions on access to a part of the Recreation Area are necessary to protect endangered species, to only restrict pedestrian and vehicular access for recreational activities for the shortest possible time and on the smallest possible portions of such area. Prohibits the final rule titled "Special Regulations, Areas of the National Park System, Cape Hatteras National Seashore--Off-Road Vehicle Management" from having any force or effect. Invalidates the April 30, 2008, consent decree filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina regarding off-road vehicle use at the Seashore.
AI Summary
This bill, the Preserving Public Access to Cape Hatteras Beaches Act, mandates that the Cape Hatteras National Seashore in North Carolina be managed according to the National Park Service's (NPS) Interim Protected Species Management Strategy/Environmental Assessment from June 13, 2007, until a new final rule is issued by the Secretary of the Interior. It prohibits the NPS from imposing any new restrictions on pedestrian or vehicle access for species protection beyond those already in the Interim Strategy, unless specifically authorized by this Act. If the Secretary determines, based on scientific evidence and public input, that additional restrictions are necessary to protect endangered species, these restrictions can only limit recreational access for the shortest possible time and on the smallest necessary areas. The bill also invalidates a specific final rule concerning off-road vehicle management and a 2008 court agreement related to off-road vehicle use at the Seashore, effectively reinstating previous access policies.
Committee Categories
Agriculture and Natural Resources
Sponsors (3)
Last Action
Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 180. (on 09/10/2013)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...