Bill would permanently bar wilderness status for Big Cypress preserve
In markupS. 446Latest action
Sponsor: Rick Scott · Senator · FL
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: A bill to prohibit Big Cypress National Preserve from being designated as wilderness or as a component of the National Wilderness Preservation System, and for other purposes.
119th Congress
Topics: Environment & energy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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S 446 would permanently ban Big Cypress National Preserve from ever getting federal wilderness designation.
35-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
S 446 permanently blocks Big Cypress National Preserve from being designated "wilderness" or added to the National Wilderness Preservation System, regardless of future proposals or agency recommendations. It does not change other existing rules, protections, or management plans for the preserve.
Who does it affect?
It affects recreational users like off-road vehicle riders, hunters, and airboat operators, plus Native American tribes and local communities tied to the land. It also affects conservation groups seeking stronger protections and the National Park Service, which manages the preserve.
Why does it matter?
Wilderness designation would have imposed strict limits on motorized vehicles, roads, and development; this bill permanently removes that option, preserving current uses like off-road trails, hunting, and oil and gas operations.
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Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedFeb 6, 2025
- Senate committeeYou are here · Feb 4, 2026
- Senate vote
- House
- The president's desk
Right now: a Senate committee is reviewing it. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably and an amendment to the title.