Legislative hearing on H.R. 34, H.R. 1329, H.R. 3553, H.R. 5478, H.R. 5911 and S. 282

The House Committee on Natural Resources GOP Subcommittee on Federal Lands convened a legislative hearing on February 11, 2026, to consider six bills addressing public land management, cultural institutions, and federal resources. Key discussions included the Land and Social Security Optimization Act (H.R. 34), which proposes directing revenue from public lands to bolster the Social Security Trust Fund, though the Forest Service expressed opposition to the bill as currently written. The Crystal Reservoir Conveyance Act (H.R. 5911) was supported as a practical local land conveyance to transfer responsibility for critical water infrastructure to the City of Ouray, Colorado, enhancing local control and reducing federal liability. The Brushfires Act (H.R. 3553) was highlighted for addressing wildfire risks in shrubland ecosystems, emphasizing the need for tailored mitigation strategies and improved federal-local coordination. Additionally, the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum Act (H.R. 1329) was discussed, focusing on authorizing a site on the National Mall for the museum, with attention to bipartisan support and fundraising efforts. The hearing underscored themes of local stewardship, efficient land management, wildfire mitigation, and cultural recognition, with an emphasis on balancing federal oversight and community empowerment while safeguarding taxpayer interests.