Federal forest land in Arizona would transfer to two counties for cemeteries at no charge

What does this do?

HR 1829 would transfer about 5 acres of federal forest land to Navajo County for a cemetery near Pinedale, and about 10.6 acres to Apache County for a cemetery near Alpine. Both transfers would cost the counties nothing in purchase price. If either county uses the land for any purpose other than a cemetery, ownership automatically reverts to the federal government.

Who does it affect?

Residents of Navajo County and Apache County in Arizona, especially those near the communities of Pinedale and Alpine, are most directly affected. Local governments in both counties would gain control of the land, while the broader public would see roughly 15 combined acres leave federal ownership.

Why does it matter?

Each county would gain land it could use to expand or establish cemetery space, but only within the strict limits set by the bill. A small portion of national forest land would permanently leave federal ownership if the transfers are completed.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• No payment to federal government
• Counties pay survey costs
• Counties cover environmental studies

Where does it stand?