Agencies would sign one agreement on traditional land grant uses of federal land
Passed one chamberS. 1363Latest action
Sponsor: Ben Ray Luján · Senator · NM
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: New Mexico Land Grant-Mercedes Historical or Traditional Use Cooperation and Coordination Act
119th Congress
Topics: Environment & energy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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The Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management would have two years to sign an agreement with the New Mexico Land Grant Council on traditional uses of federal land.
55-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
The bill requires the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management, through the Agriculture and Interior Departments, to sign a memorandum of understanding with the New Mexico Land Grant Council within two years. The agreement would list which traditional uses need a permit, how to apply, what fees may apply, how to ask for fees to be reduced or waived, and how to get approval for maintenance and larger projects. It would be renewed or updated when it expires.
Who does it affect?
Members of New Mexico land grant communities (mercedes), the Land Grant Council, federal land managers in the state, and nearby tribes. Land grant communities and tribes would be notified and could comment on federal land planning decisions that may affect them.
Why does it matter?
Communities that use federal land for grazing, firewood, hunting, water, and cemeteries would have permit, fee, and approval steps set out in one place. The bill creates no new right to use federal land and approves no particular use, so existing federal laws and permit requirements still apply.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Based on the “Engrossed in Senate” text of Sep 23, 2026.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedApr 9, 2025
- Senate committee
- Senate vote
- HouseYou are here · Sep 24, 2026
- The president's desk
Right now: it passed the Senate, and the official record shows nothing new since. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Held at the desk.