Bill would let Sacramento landowners buy out old federal land claim

What does this do?

This bill addresses about 8.43 acres in Sacramento, California, where the federal government still holds a "reversionary interest" dating to an 1862 railroad land grant law. It requires the Bureau of Land Management to remove that claim within two years if a landowner requests it and pays fair market value plus related costs. Existing railroad rights-of-way are unaffected, and no new possession-based property rights are created.

Who does it affect?

This affects property owners within the specific 8.43-acre area of Sacramento who want clear title to their land. It does not affect landowners outside that defined area.

Why does it matter?

The change would resolve a legal technicality that lets the federal government theoretically reclaim privately used land under old conditions, giving affected owners unclouded ownership.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Landowner pays fair market value
• Plus survey, admin costs
• Funds go to federal land account