Bill renews BLM foundation with $10M yearly cap and new board rules

What does this do?

HR 4044 renews and renames the Foundation for America's Public Lands, which raises private funds to support the Bureau of Land Management. The bill authorizes up to $10 million per year for five years and prohibits the foundation from spending that money on lawsuits or lobbying Congress. It also expands the board of directors from up to 12 members to up to 18 members and requires seats for people with specific industry and recreation backgrounds.

Who does it affect?

The bill directly affects the foundation, the federal government, and anyone who donates to or works with the foundation. It indirectly affects ranchers, miners, energy companies, outdoor recreationists, and any Americans who use BLM-managed lands.

Why does it matter?

The foundation raises private money to support projects on roughly 245 million acres of federal land used for grazing, mining, energy production, and recreation. Changes to board composition and funding rules would alter who shapes the foundation's priorities and how its money can be used.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Up to $10M per year authorized
• 5-year funding window
• No funds for lawsuits or lobbying