Expressing support for the designation of the second Saturday of January as "National Desert Day".
- Bill Number
- H.J.Res. 138
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Policy Area
- Environmental Protection
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2026-01-08: Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
- Last Updated
- 2026-01-12T16:56:39Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This joint resolution (H.J. Res. 138) aims to express congressional support for designating the second Saturday of January as "National Desert Day." It seeks to raise awareness about the importance of desert ecosystems, their biodiversity, and the need for conservation efforts, while encouraging educational programs and policies to protect these areas.
Key Provisions
- Background Context (Whereas Clauses):
- Defines a desert as an arid area with sparse vegetation, low rainfall (less than 10 inches annually), and typically warm climate.
- Notes the four major U.S. deserts: Mojave, Sonoran, Chihuahuan, and Great Basin.
- Highlights growing concerns about threats to desert habitats, the interconnectedness of ecosystems, unique desert biodiversity, and the cultural and ecological significance of deserts.
- Resolved Actions:
- Supports the "National Desert Day" designation and requests the President to issue a proclamation urging Americans to observe it with programs, ceremonies, and activities.
- Acknowledges deserts' role in supporting migrating birds and global biodiversity.
- Reaffirms commitment to native landscapes by reducing invasive plant species and maintaining pollinator gardens.
- Honors U.S. efforts to educate citizens on conserving desert biodiversity.
- Encourages policies to protect and preserve deserts worldwide.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This is a non-binding joint resolution, so it introduces no changes to existing laws or regulations. It serves as a symbolic statement of support rather than enforceable legislation.
Potential Impacts
- On Government Agencies: May prompt the President to issue a proclamation, potentially leading to minor coordination by agencies like the Department of the Interior or Environmental Protection Agency for awareness campaigns, but no new mandates or funding.
- On Citizens: Encourages public participation in educational events, fostering greater awareness of desert conservation and sustainable practices, which could inspire volunteerism or local initiatives.
- On International Relations: Indirectly promotes global biodiversity efforts by recognizing deserts' role in worldwide ecosystems, but has no direct diplomatic effects.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Environmental and Conservation Groups: Benefit from heightened visibility for habitat protection and anti-invasion species efforts.
- Residents and Communities in Desert Regions: Such as those in the southwestern U.S., who may see increased focus on local biodiversity and cultural heritage.
- Educators and the Public: Targeted for awareness programs on ecosystems and conservation roles.
- Wildlife and Biodiversity Advocates: Including bird migration experts and pollinator initiatives, who gain congressional endorsement for their work.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: As a simple resolution, it has no legal force and cannot compel action; it relies on voluntary observance.
- Constitutional: Aligns with Congress's power to express policy preferences (Article I), but does not infringe on executive or state powers.
- Political: Symbolically advances environmental advocacy in a bipartisan context, potentially building momentum for future conservation legislation without controversy, as it focuses on education rather than regulation.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Recent Actions
- 2026-01-08: Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
- 2026-01-08: Introduced in House
- 2026-01-08: Introduced in House
Bill Versions
- Expressing support for the designation of the second Saturday of January as "National Desert Day". — issued 2026-01-08 — PDF (3 pages)