Representative Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) has introduced legislation aimed at improving stewardship of the land surrounding domestic U.S. military bases.
Specifically, Rep. Ciscomani's House Resolution 2493 amends a portion of the 1960 Sikes Act, which has required the Secretary of Defense to cooperate with the Fish and Wildlife Service, along with state and local partners, to ensure the conservation and management of natural resources in and around military installations.
The bill offers greater flexibility and reduces the red tape surrounding the existing system by clarifying that cooperative agreements under the Sikes Act can be used not only for current or anticipated military activities, but also for the broader operations of the military installation or state-owned National Guard installations.
As a result, the state and federal government have greater latitude in stewardship over land in and near installations used for training, conservation, and public safety.
"This commonsense update ensures that our military installations, including Fort Huachuca, have the tools they need to protect surrounding lands while staying mission-ready," said Rep. Ciscomani in his press release, adding, "It's about improving flexibility, enhancing coordination with local and state partners, and supporting conservation without compromising national security."
As the Arizona Congressman noted, the bill is sponsored by residents of Cochise County, including Sierra Vista Mayor Clea McCaa and Huachuca 50 President Dr. Randy Groth.
"The City of Sierra Vista strongly supports H.R. 4293, which strengthens the Sikes Act while balancing the need for military readiness with environmental stewardship," said Mayor McCaa, adding, "Without this critical amendment, the City's economic development plans remain vulnerable to legal actions from external special interest groups that allege Fort Huachuca's operations negatively impact off-post habitat. This bill represents a thoughtful and balanced approach, and the City is grateful for Rep. Ciscomani's leadership and commitment to our region's economic and national security."
Similarly, Dr. McGroth said, "For over 20 years, special interest groups from outside Cochise County have targeted Fort Huachuca and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service with lawsuits, threatening the Fort's critical role in national defense. This legislation provides a common-sense update that maintains environmental protections while safeguarding military readiness and the local economy. We commend Rep. Ciscomani for his dedication to protecting Cochise County and the nation's defense capabilities."
