Expressing support for the designation of the week of May 9 through May 18, 2025, as "National American Birding Week".
- Bill Number
- H.Res. 363
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Environmental Protection
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-05-08: Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR H1926)
- Last Updated
- 2026-05-15T17:07:16Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This House Resolution (H. Res. 363) expresses support for designating the week of May 9 through May 18, 2025, as "National American Birding Week." It highlights the importance of bird migration, conservation efforts, and the economic value of birdwatching in the United States.
Key Provisions
- Support for Designation: The House of Representatives supports the week as "National American Birding Week" to promote awareness of bird migration and conservation.
- Economic Recognition: Acknowledges that birdwatching generates billions in economic benefits annually, including $107 billion in spending by about 96 million participants, which supports 1.4 million jobs and tax revenue.
- Threats to Birds: Notes that migratory bird populations (over 350 species, including 3.5 billion songbirds, raptors, shorebirds, and waterfowl) are declining due to habitat loss, predation, and collisions with buildings, power lines, and vehicles.
- Praise for Conservation Efforts: Applauds collaborations among federal, state, and local governments, conservation groups, and businesses to protect birds and boost economic development through activities like research, education, and outreach.
- Public Encouragement: Urges birdwatchers and the general public to participate in events, such as the "Biggest Week in American Birding" in Ohio, to learn about migration and support preservation initiatives.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This is a non-binding resolution, so it introduces no changes to existing laws or regulations. It serves as a symbolic statement of congressional support rather than enacting new legal requirements.
Potential Impacts
- On Government Agencies: May encourage federal agencies like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (involved in bird conservation) to highlight birding events, potentially increasing public engagement without mandating new actions.
- On Citizens: Raises awareness among the public about bird conservation and the economic benefits of birdwatching, potentially inspiring more participation in outdoor activities and support for environmental causes.
- On International Relations: Indirectly supports migratory bird conservation, which involves international cooperation (e.g., birds migrating from Mexico and tropical regions), but has no direct diplomatic effects.
Overall, impacts are primarily educational and promotional, fostering greater appreciation for wildlife without enforceable obligations.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Birdwatchers and the Public: Directly encouraged to engage in events and learn about conservation.
- Conservation Organizations: Such as the Black Swamp Bird Observatory, which benefit from recognition of their events and efforts.
- Government Entities: Federal (e.g., national wildlife refuges), state (e.g., wildlife areas), and local agencies involved in habitat protection and public outreach.
- Businesses and Nonprofits: Those in the birding industry (e.g., tourism, equipment sales) and partners in events, who gain visibility for economic and conservation activities.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: As a simple resolution, it requires only a House majority vote and has no force of law, avoiding any constitutional issues related to separation of powers or federal authority.
- Constitutional: None significant, as it aligns with Congress's broad authority to express policy preferences on environmental and economic matters without infringing on individual rights.
- Political: Demonstrates bipartisan support (introduced by representatives from both parties) for wildlife conservation and eco-tourism, potentially influencing future funding or awareness campaigns without controversy. It underscores a non-partisan emphasis on balancing environmental protection with economic growth.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Cosponsors (3)
Rep. Latta, Robert E. [R-OH-5], Rep. Dingell, Debbie [D-MI-6], Rep. Schakowsky, Janice D. [D-IL-9]
Recent Actions
- 2025-05-08: Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR H1926)
- 2025-04-30: Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
- 2025-04-30: Submitted in House
- 2025-04-30: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Expressing support for the designation of the week of May 9 through May 18, 2025, as "National American Birding Week". — issued 2025-04-30 — PDF (3 pages)