Supporting recognition of 2026 as the "International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists".
- Bill Number
- H.Res. 1144
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Policy Area
- Agriculture and Food
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2026-03-27: Referred to the Committee on Natural Resources, and in addition to the Committee on Agriculture, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
- Last Updated
- 2026-04-06T12:59:31Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This House Resolution (H. Res. 1144) expresses support for recognizing 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, as designated by the United Nations. It highlights the vital role of rangelands (open lands like prairies and grasslands used for grazing) and pastoralists (ranchers and herders who manage them) in the U.S. economy, environment, and food security.
Key Provisions
- Supports recognition: Affirms 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists.
- Acknowledges importance: Recognizes the economic (e.g., beef, lamb production), social, cultural, and ecological value (e.g., wildfire reduction, biodiversity, carbon storage) of U.S. rangelands, which cover about 36% of the nation's land.
- Encourages action: Urges federal agencies, universities, and organizations to promote education, research, and outreach on sustainable rangeland management.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
- None. This is a non-binding resolution that expresses the House of Representatives' views but does not create new laws, mandates, or enforceable requirements.
Potential Impacts
- Government agencies: May inspire voluntary activities like educational programs by agencies under the Committees on Natural Resources and Agriculture, but no funding or obligations are imposed.
- Citizens and communities: Raises awareness among rural communities, ranchers, and the public about rangeland benefits, potentially supporting food security and wildfire prevention.
- International relations: Aligns the U.S. with global UN efforts, encouraging worldwide celebrations through education and advocacy.
Main Stakeholders
- Ranchers, pastoralists, farmers, and land managers: Primary beneficiaries, praised for their stewardship of rangelands.
- Federal agencies (e.g., those managing public lands): Encouraged to participate in promotional efforts.
- Universities and organizations: Involved in research and outreach.
- Rural communities and global populations: Affected by rangeland health for food, economy, and ecosystems.
- International bodies (e.g., UN): Recognition supports their initiative.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: No binding effect; resolutions like this are symbolic and do not require presidential approval or Senate concurrence to express House sentiment.
- Constitutional: Fits Congress's role in informing policy and recognizing international observances without infringing on executive powers.
- Political: Bipartisan sponsorship (from both parties) signals broad support for agriculture and land management; referred to key committees for review, potentially influencing future funding or policies.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Cosponsors (7)
Rep. Costa, Jim [D-CA-21], Rep. Mann, Tracey [R-KS-1], Rep. Evans, Gabe [R-CO-8], Del. King-Hinds, Kimberlyn [R-MP-At Large], Rep. Fulcher, Russ [R-ID-1], Rep. Hageman, Harriet M. [R-WY-At Large], Rep. Grothman, Glenn [R-WI-6]
Recent Actions
- 2026-03-27: Referred to the Committee on Natural Resources, and in addition to the Committee on Agriculture, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
- 2026-03-27: Referred to the Committee on Natural Resources, and in addition to the Committee on Agriculture, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
- 2026-03-27: Submitted in House
- 2026-03-27: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Supporting recognition of 2026 as the "International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists". — issued 2026-03-27 — PDF (4 pages)