5,600 acres of Virginia national forest would join two wilderness areas
Placed on the calendarS. 1680Latest action
Sponsor: Tim Kaine · Senator · VA
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Virginia Wilderness Additions Act of 2025
119th Congress
Topics: Environment & energy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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About 5,600 acres of George Washington National Forest would be added to two wilderness areas, limiting motor vehicles, logging and roads.
50-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
The bill would add about 5,600 acres in the George Washington National Forest in western Virginia to two existing wilderness areas. About 1,000 acres would join the Rough Mountain Wilderness right away, and 4,600 acres would join the Rich Hole Wilderness in two steps. The Rich Hole land would first be a "potential wilderness area" and would become full wilderness after 5 years, or sooner if the Forest Service announces in the Federal Register that certain work is finished.
Who does it affect?
Hikers, hunters, campers and anglers who use this part of the forest, and the Forest Service, which manages the land. Nearby businesses or visitors who rely on logging, road building or mountain biking could also be affected.
Why does it matter?
Wilderness status generally limits logging, road building and mountain biking, while hiking, camping, hunting and fishing generally remain allowed. The land is already federally owned, so no private property would be taken.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Based on the “Reported to Senate” text of Oct 27, 2025.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedMay 8, 2025
- Senate committee
- Senate voteYou are here · Oct 27, 2025
- House
- The president's desk
Right now: it was placed on the , and the official record shows no floor action on it since. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 213.