Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2021 — House Report 116-448
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This is House Report 116-448 of the 116th Congress, 2d Session, titled Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2021, from the Committee on Appropriations, together with minority views, committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union and ordered to be printed July 14, 2020. Ms. McCollum reports on H.R. 7612, making appropriations for the Department of the Interior, the Environmental Protection Agency, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2021. The report states that the bill provides regular annual appropriations for the Department of the Interior, the Environmental Protection Agency, and related agencies, including the Forest Service, the Indian Health Service, the Smithsonian Institution, and the National Foundation on the Arts and the Humanities.
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“Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2021 — House Report 116-448.”
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116TH CONGRESS REPORT
" HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES !
2d Session 116–448
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND
RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS BILL, 2021
JULY 14, 2020.—Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of
the Union and ordered to be printed
Ms. MCCOLLUM, from the Committee on Appropriations,
submitted the following
R E P O R T
together with
MINORITY VIEWS
[To accompany H.R. 7612]
The Committee on Appropriations submits the following report in
explanation of the accompanying bill making appropriations for the
Department of the Interior, the Environmental Protection Agency,
and Related Agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30,
2021. The bill provides regular annual appropriations for the De-
partment of the Interior (except the Bureau of Reclamation and the
Central Utah Project), the Environmental Protection Agency, and
for other related agencies, including the Forest Service, the Indian
Health Service, the Smithsonian Institution, and the National
Foundation on the Arts and the Humanities.
CONTENTS
Page number
Bill Report
Title I—Department of the Interior: 2 12
Bureau of Land Management ............................................................ 2 12
United States Fish and Wildlife Service ........................................... 8 16
National Park Service ......................................................................... 15 32
United States Geological Survey ....................................................... 21 42
Bureau of Ocean Energy Management ............................................. 24 50
Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement ......................... 25 51
Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement ................. 28 52
Bureau of Indian Affairs .................................................................... 31 53
Bureau of Indian Education ............................................................... 35 64
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40–819
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Page number
Bill Report
Office of the Special Trustee for American Indians ......................... 42 69
Office of the Secretary ........................................................................ 44 71
Insular Affairs ..................................................................................... 47 72
Office of the Solicitor .......................................................................... 50 74
Office of Inspector General ................................................................. 50 74
Department-wide Programs: 50 75
Wildland Fire Management, Interior Department ........................... 50 75
Central Hazardous Materials Fund .................................................. 55 76
Natural Resource Damage Assessment and Restoration ................. 55 77
Working Capital Fund ........................................................................ 56 77
Office of Natural Resources Revenue ................................................ 57 77
General Provisions, Department of the Interior ............................... 58 77
Title II—Environmental Protection Agency: 72 79
Science and Technology ...................................................................... 72 82
Environmental Programs and Management ..................................... 73 88
Hazardous Waste Electronic Manifest System Fund ....................... 74 100
Office of Inspector General ................................................................. 75 100
Buildings and Facilities ...................................................................... 75 101
Hazardous Substance Superfund ....................................................... 75 101
Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund Program ............. 76 103
Inland Oil Spill Programs .................................................................. 77 104
State and Tribal Assistance Grants .................................................. 77 105
Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Program Account ... 88 109
Administrative Provisions .................................................................. 90 110
Title III—Related Agencies: 96 111
Office of the Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environ-
ment .................................................................................................. 96 111
Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture .............................. 96 111
Wildland Fire Management, Forest Service ..................................... 101 122
Indian Health Service, U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services ............................................................................................ 111 124
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences ..................... 121 134
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ......................... 121 135
Other Related Agencies: 122 136
Council on Environmental Quality and Office of Environmental
Quality .............................................................................................. 122 136
Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board ........................... 123 137
Office of Navajo and Hopi Indian Relocation ................................... 124 137
Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture and Arts
Development .................................................................................... 125 138
Smithsonian Institution ..................................................................... 125 138
National Gallery of Art ....................................................................... 128 143
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts ............................ 130 143
Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars ........................ 130 144
National Endowment for the Arts ..................................................... 131 145
National Endowment for the Humanities ......................................... 131 146
Commission of Fine Arts .................................................................... 133 148
National Capital Arts and Cultural Affairs ...................................... 133 148
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation ....................................... 134 148
National Capital Planning Commission ............................................ 134 149
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum .................................... 134 149
Presidio Trust ...................................................................................... 135 150
Women’s Suffrage Centennial Commission ...................................... — 151
Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial Commission ................................. 135 150
World War I Centennial Commission ................................................ 135 151
Alyce Spotted Bear and Walter Soboleff Commission ...................... — 152
Title IV—General Provisions: 136 152
Title V—Additional Infrastructure Investments: 165 154
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INTRODUCTION
The Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agen-
cies Appropriations bill for fiscal year 2021 totals $36,760,000,000,
$771,000,000 above the fiscal year 2020 enacted level and
$5,108,262,000 above the fiscal year 2021 budget request. Addition-
ally, the bill includes a title for emergency-designated infrastruc-
ture investments totaling $15,000,000,000 for the Bureau of Indian
Education, Environmental Protection Agency, and the Indian
Health Service.
The amounts in the accompanying bill are reflected by title in
the table below. References throughout this report to the enacted
bill and the budget request refer to the fiscal year 2020 enacted
level and the fiscal year 2021 budget request unless otherwise stat-
ed.
DISCRETIONARY BUDGET AUTHORITY RECOMMENDED IN BILL BY TITLE
Committee bill
Budget estimates, Committee bill,
Activity compared with budget
fiscal year 2021 fiscal year 2021 estimates
Title I, Department of the Interior:
New budget authority ........................ $11,987,032,000 $13,765,738,000 +$1,778,706,000
Title II, Environmental Protection Agency:
New budget authority ........................ $6,704,071,000 $9,375,691,000 +$2,671,620,000
Title III, Related Agencies:
New budget authority ........................ $15,306,635,000 $15,968,571,000 +$661,936,000
Title IV, General Provisions:
New budget authority ........................ $4,000,000 $0 ¥$4,000,000
Title V, Infrastructure:
New budget authority (emergency) .... $0 $15,000,000,000 +$15,000,000,000
Grand total, New budget au-
thority ............................... $34,001,738,000 $54,110,000,000 +$20,108,262,000
Less emergencies ................. $0 ¥$15,000,000,000
Less Fire Cap Adjustment .... ¥$2,350,000,000 ¥$2,350,000,000
Net, New budget authority ... $31,651,738,000 $36,760,000,000 +$771,000,000
COMMITTEE OVERSIGHT
Members of Congress have provided considerable input in fash-
ioning this bill. In total, 378 Members submitted 7,225 pro-
grammatic requests relating to multiple agencies and programs.
The Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Subcommittee
conducted fourteen oversight hearings this year (including four
hearings involving American Indians and Alaska Natives) to care-
fully review the programs and budgets under its jurisdiction. The
Subcommittee held the following oversight hearings:
Chronic Wasting Disease—October 17, 2019
Strengthening Community Recycling—February 5, 2020
Public Witness Day hearing—February 6, 2020 (morning)
Public Witness Day hearing—February 6, 2020 (afternoon)
American Indian/Alaska Native Public Witnesses—February
11, 2020 (morning)
American Indian/Alaska Native Public Witnesses—February
11, 2020 (afternoon)
American Indian/Alaska Native Public Witnesses—February
12, 2020 (morning)
American Indian/Alaska Native Public Witnesses—February
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12, 2020 (afternoon)
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Forest Service FY21 budget oversight hearing—February 27,
2020
National Gallery of Art FY21 budget oversight hearing—
March 3, 2020
Environmental Protection Agency FY21 budget oversight
hearing—March 4, 2020
Members of Congress Witness Day hearing—March 10, 2020
Department of the Interior FY21 budget oversight hearing—
March 11, 2020
Indian Health Service Covid Oversight Hearing—June 11,
2020
In total, 152 individuals representing the Executive Branch, Con-
gress, State, Tribal, and local governments, and the general public
testified before the Subcommittee. In addition to those who testi-
fied in person, another 168 Members of Congress, organizations, or
coalitions provided written testimony for the hearing record which
is publicly available online.
21ST CENTURY CONSERVATION SERVICE CORPS
The Committee encourages the Departments of Agriculture and
the Interior to continue facilitating the approval of 21st Century
Conservation Service Corps organizations and work in partnership
to engage young adults and veterans in conservation, recreation,
infrastructure, wildfire, disaster response, and community develop-
ment service projects on public lands and in rural and urban com-
munities, as authorized by the Public Lands Corps Act (16 U.S.C.
1721 et seq.).
AERIAL FIREFIGHTER CERTIFICATION
The Committee is concerned that, in some cases, aerial fire-
fighting companies put forward by states for inclusion in Coop-
erator Letters, and that are certified by states as meeting the
equivalent of either Forest Service or Department of Interior stand-
ards, are not receiving timely approval or are receiving conditional
approvals that limit states from fully utilizing their resources to
fight wildfires. Given the patchwork of state and federal lands and
the scale of wildfires, the Committee urges timely and transparent
Cooperator Letter decisions to allow states to adequately respond
to regional wildfires, including providing feedback to state wildfire
agencies with detailed rationale for denials of requests. The Forest
Service is directed to brief the Committee within 180 days of enact-
ment of this Act on actions that can be taken to improve this proc-
ess to include the feasibility of federal carding outside the federal
contracting process.
BIRD COLLISIONS ON FEDERAL PROPERTY
Birds play an important role in ecosystems and a recent study
suggests that nearly 3 billion birds have been lost since 1970. This
is a staggering loss in every biome because of the important role
birds play such as pollinators or controlling pests. Collisions with
glass kill up to 1 billion birds per year in the United States. All
agencies under the jurisdiction of this Act are directed to monitor
visitor and nature centers and office buildings for bird collisions
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with glass during spring migration (April 1–June 1) and fall migra-
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tion (September 1–November 1); determine the scale of collisions;
and assess whether retrofits to windows will reduce collisions. At
a minimum, all agencies are directed to take low cost or no cost ac-
tion, such as turning off interior lights at night or applying films
or other adhesives to glass windows to reduce bird collisions.
BODY CAMERAS
The Department of the Interior is directed to provide the Com-
mittee with a plan for outfitting all law enforcement officers with
body cameras. The plan should include cost estimates with a break-
down for equipment and additional staffing requirements, includ-
ing those dealing with data management and an analysis of what
policies and training are necessary for implementation. The De-
partment is directed to submit the report within 120 days of enact-
ment of the Act.
CORAL REEF HEALTH
The Committee remains concerned that an unprecedented coral
disease outbreak especially along the Florida Reef Tract, has left
America s Great Barrier Reef on the brink of functional extinction,
posing a significant obstacle to coral reef restoration efforts. Coral
reef tracts serve as a major economic driver for the State of Florida
and the U.S. territories, and are the most biologically diverse eco-
systems in the ocean. The Committee recognizes the restoration
work of the Department of the Interior and the National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration, as well as state and territorial
government partners, to support coral monitoring, research, and
restoration efforts in highly impacted and high priority coral reef
habitats in U.S. waters, including in Biscayne National Park and
Dry Tortugas National Park, and further recommends the diver-
sion of additional resources to support the state and local partners
conducting this work on a daily basis.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
The Committee directs each of the agencies funded by this Act
to develop standards to improve customer service and incorporate
the standards into the performance plans required under title 31
of the United States Code.
DRONE INCURSIONS
The Forest Service, in consultation with the Bureau of Land
Management, shall report to the Committees on Appropriations
within 180 days of enactment of this Act, on the number of times
that a drone incursion has interfered with wildfire suppression ac-
tivities on federal lands in the past five calendar years, the actions
taken to prevent drone incursions, and recommendations to prevent
future incursions.
EDUCATIONAL AND OUTREACH PROGRAMS
The Committee strongly supports academic internships, partner-
ships, and educational and outreach programs of the agencies fund-
ed through the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies appro-
priations bill and encourages them to ensure that their efforts
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reach the widest possible audience including, but not limited to,
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Hispanic-Serving Institutions, Historically Black Colleges and Uni-
versities, and Tribal Colleges and Universities, as appropriate.
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION
The Department of the Interior is encouraged to partner with ap-
propriate entities to support year-round environmental educational
programs for kids and adults of all ages living in urban settings.
FEDERAL LAW EFORCEMENT
The Committee notes that the Commerce, Justice, Science, and
Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2021 directs the Attorney
General to establish a training program to cover the use of force
and de-escalation, racial profiling, implicit bias, and procedural jus-
tice, to include training on the duty of Federal law enforcement of-
ficers to intervene in cases where another law enforcement officer
is using excessive force, and make such training a requirement for
Federal law enforcement officers. The Committee further notes that
several Departments and agencies funded by this Act employ Fed-
eral law enforcement officers and are Federal Law Enforcement
Training Centers partner organizations. The Committee directs
such Departments and agencies to adopt and follow the training
program established by the Attorney General, and to make such
training a requirement for its Federal law enforcement officers.
The Committee further directs such Departments and agencies to
brief the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations on their
efforts relating to training no later than 90 days after the Attorney
General has established such a training program.
In addition, the Committee directs such Departments and agen-
cies, to the extent that such Departments and agencies have not al-
ready done so, to submit their use of force data to the Federal Bu-
reau of Investigation (FBI)’s National Use of Force Data Collection
database. The Committee further directs such Departments and
agencies to brief the House and Senate Committees on Appropria-
tions no later than 90 days after enactment of this Act on their cur-
rent efforts to tabulate and submit its use of force data to the FBI.
FIREFIGHTING TECHNOLOGIES
The John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recre-
ation Act directed the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary
of Agriculture, in coordination with State wildland firefighting
agencies, to jointly develop and operate a tracking system to re-
motely locate the positions of fire resources assigned to Federal
Type 1 Wildland Fire Incident Management Teams. The Com-
mittee encourages increased investment in these technologies with-
in the funds provided for Forest and Rangeland Research and for
preparedness activities in Wildland Fire Management. The Com-
mittee encourages prioritizing the use of commercial, off-the-shelf
solutions, including mobile MESH networking technology, that pro-
vide situational awareness and interoperable communications be-
tween federal, state, and local firefighting agencies.
FIRE RESILIENT COMMUNITIES
The Committee supports public-private partnerships that pro-
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mote fire resilient communities including efforts to encourage the
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design, construction, and retrofitting of fire resilient residential
homes and commercial buildings. Collaborative efforts between pri-
vate industry, university-based wildfire researchers, community-
based organizations and local communities are making notable
progress in developing construction techniques and identifying
building materials and assemblies to actively mitigate fire risk in
areas susceptible to catastrophic wildland fire, including the
wildland urban interface. The Committee encourages efforts at the
state and local level, particularly within high-risk fire areas, to
support the use of American made materials or assemblies that,
based on standardized testing, have demonstrated fire-resilient
performance to support and promote fire hardened and resilient
communities.
FIREFIGHTING AVIATION CONTRACTS
In past years, the Committee has included direction and re-
sources to assist the Forest Service in modernizing the fleet of air-
craft available for wildland fire suppression activities. It is impor-
tant that the Forest Service and Department of the Interior ana-
lyze current contracting capabilities to determine whether changes
to existing practices may better support the strategic plan for aer-
ial firefighting assets. Recent initiatives that have been undertaken
have increased firefighting effectiveness and/or reduced costs. The
Committee has become aware that the limitation on the length of
federal civilian contracts (no more than five years) may be, as it
was with stewardship contracts for forest health restoration, a limi-
tation on both effectiveness and cost efficiency for procuring mod-
ern, cost effective aviation assets for fire suppression. The existing
aviation fleet is primarily comprised of contractor-owned and oper-
ated aircraft, many of which are small businesses. The certainty
provided by longer-term contracts of up to ten years has the poten-
tial to ensure greater accountability, cost efficiency and a stream-
lined approach. The U.S. Forest Service Aviation Implementation
Strategy (2018–2022) indicates that the size and intensity of
wildfires is expected to rise; resulting in continued demand for aer-
ial fighting aircraft. Particularly as COVID–19 causes additional
limitations on the ground, a modern and safe air fleet will be an
important asset for the upcoming firefighting season. Therefore,
the Committee directs the Forest Service in partnership with the
Department of the Interior, to prepare and submit a report to the
Committee within 90 days of enactment of this Act outlining cur-
rent statutory limitations that prohibit the use of 10-year contracts.
Additionally, the report shall include current contract requirements
that ensure a modern and safe aviation fleet and how a shift to 10-
year contracting could impact those requirements. The report shall
state how many aviation contracts the Forest Service and Depart-
ment of the Interior have issued over the last 10 years, as well as
any anticipated changes in either the number of contracts issued,
the costs, or the type of contract vehicle used, due to a shift to 10-
year contracting. Finally, the Forest Service shall provide input on
how a potential pilot program for 10-year contracts could be imple-
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mented.
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HARASSMENT FREE WORKPLACE
The Committee expects to receive the Office of the Inspector Gen-
eral (OIG) report directed in Public Law 116–94 regarding Forest
Service progress to implement the recommendations included in
the February 2019 OIG report entitled ‘‘Forest Service Initiatives
to Address Workplace Misconduct’’ not later than June 17, 2020.
The Committee expects all Federal employees, including those in
leadership positions at the agencies funded through this bill, to
take the necessary steps to create and maintain harassment-free
workplaces.
LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND
With the coming enactment of H.R. 1957, the Great American
Outdoors Act (GAOA), funding derived from the Land and Water
Conservation Fund will be made available for authorized purposes
without the need for annual appropriations. The Committee has
therefore not included the conventional statutory language
throughout the bill distributing these funds. With respect to the es-
timated $900,000,000 that will become available for fiscal year
2021, which this bill addresses, GAOA requires the administration
to submit to Congress detailed account, program, and project allo-
cations of the full amount within 90 days after its enactment. In
the meantime, the Committee is providing the following direction
pursuant to section 200303(c)(2)(A) of GAOA. Working within these
parameters, the administration is expected to forward project-level
and administrative-cost details as soon as feasible within the 90-
day timeframe required by GAOA.
Allocation of Funds from the Land and Water Conservation Fund—Fiscal Year 2021
Allocation of Fund Amounts for Federal Purposes .................................................................................... $450,000,000
Bureau of Land Management—Land Acquisition
Acquisitions and acquisition management .......................................................................................... 55,000,000
Recreational public access ................................................................................................................... 26,000,000
Emergencies, hardships and inholdings ............................................................................................... 6,000,000
United States Fish and Wildlife Service—Land Acquisition
Acquisitions and acquisition management .......................................................................................... 80,000,000
Recreational public access ................................................................................................................... 20,000,000
Emergencies, hardships and inholdings ............................................................................................... 11,000,000
Other uses ............................................................................................................................................. 2,000,000
National Park Service—Land Acquisition and State Assistance
Acquisitions and acquisition management .......................................................................................... 92,000,000
Recreational public access ................................................................................................................... 19,000,000
Emergencies, hardships and relocations .............................................................................................. 7,000,000
Inholding, donations and exchanges .................................................................................................... 6,000,000
Office of the Secretary—Departmental Operations
Appraisal and Valuation Services Office (Federal Lands) .................................................................... 15,000,000
Forest Service—Land Acquisition
Acquisitions and acquisition management .......................................................................................... 97,000,000
Recreational public access ................................................................................................................... 10,000,000
Critical inholdings/wilderness, cash equalization ................................................................................ 4,000,000
Financial Assistance to State and Other Non-Federal Uses ...................................................................... 450,000,000
National Park Service—Land Acquisition and State Assistance
State Conservation Grants (formula) * ................................................................................................. 185,000,000
State Conservation Grants (competitive) * ........................................................................................... 100,000,000
State Conservation Grants Administration ........................................................................................... 10,000,000
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National Park Service—Land Acquisition and State Assistance
American Battlefield Protection Program .............................................................................................. 18,000,000
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Allocation of Funds from the Land and Water Conservation Fund—Fiscal Year 2021—Continued
United States Fish and Wildlife Service—Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund
Species Recovery / HCP Land Acquisition ............................................................................................ 31,000,000
United States Fish and Wildlife Service—Land Acquisition
Highlands Conservation Act .................................................................................................................. 10,000,000
Forest Service—State and Private Forestry
Forest Legacy Program .......................................................................................................................... 96,000,000
* State Conservation Grants do not include amounts made available by the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA).
LAND GRANTS, ACEQUIAS AND COMMUNITY DITCHES
The Secretaries of the Department of the Interior and the De-
partment of Agriculture are urged to recognize the traditional use
of State-recognized community land grants, acequias, and commu-
nity ditches in the American Southwest during the land use plan-
ning process and in accordance with applicable law, shall consider
and, as appropriate, provide for traditional-historic uses by these
entities within land management plans.
MARIJUANA ON PUBLIC LANDS
The Committee is aware that trespassers illegally grow mari-
juana on public lands throughout the country, including in Cali-
fornia and Kentucky. These unlawful activities harmfully impact
the public, water, soil, and wildlife. The Committee supports Forest
Service efforts to develop tools to detect and eradicate grow sites.
The Committee directs the Forest Service and Bureau of Land
Management to continue to cooperate with state, local and tribal
governments on survey, reclamation, and prevention efforts to the
maximum extent possible.
MISSISSIPPI RIVER RESTORATION AND RESILIENCY STRATEGY
The Committee recognizes that the Mississippi River basin from
Minnesota to Louisiana is a vital American waterway. Therefore,
the Committee urges the Department of Interior, including the Na-
tional Park Service, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and
the Bureau of Indian Affairs to participate and coordinate as an es-
sential federal stakeholder with the Environmental Protection
Agency as it leads efforts to develop a federal government-wide
Mississippi River restoration and resiliency strategy focused on im-
proving water quality, restoring habitat and natural systems, im-
proved navigation, eliminating aquatic invasive species, and build-
ing local resilience to natural disasters. Additional direction is pro-
vided for the Environmental Protection Agency.
MITIGATION ACTIVITIES FOR BORDER BARRIER CONSTRUCTION
Construction of a border barrier can adversely impact sensitive
lands along the southwest border, including national wildlife ref-
uges, national forests, national monuments, and wilderness areas.
It can also jeopardize wildlife and the survival of imperiled species.
The Committee directs the Department of the Interior to work with
the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Department of Homeland Se-
curity, and the Department of Defense to complete the report re-
quired in House Report 116–180. Bill language has been included
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which authorizes the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to ac-
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10
cept transfers of funds from U.S. Customs and Border Protection
for mitigation activities, including land acquisition, related to con-
struction of border barriers on Federal lands.
MONARCH BUTTERFLY POPULATIONS
The Committee is aware the United States Fish and Wildlife
Service is gathering information to determine whether the monarch
butterfly should be listed as a threatened or endangered species
under the Endangered Species Act. The Committee supports the
historic Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances re-
cently forged to create and maintain habitat for Monarch butter-
flies and other pollinators on energy and transportation lands. The
Secretary of the Interior is directed to report back to the Com-
mittee within 120 days of the enactment of this Act on the status
of all efforts to assist with Monarch recovery.
OUTDOOR RECREATION FOR MILITARY FAMILIES
The Committee recognizes the wellness and health benefits of or-
ganized outdoor recreation and education activities on our nation’s
public lands, and supports the Department of the Interior and For-
est Service collaborating with the Department of Defense, state and
local governments, and vetted non-governmental partners to pro-
mote wellness and health for military families using an outdoor
recreation program model. The agencies are directed to provide
technical assistance to the Defense Health Agency as it develops a
scalable and community-based wellness program focused on out-
door recreational activities utilizing local, state, national parks and
public lands.
PAYMENTS IN LIEU OF TAXES (PILT)
The Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program provides com-
pensation to local governments for the loss of tax revenue resulting
from the presence of Federal land in their county or State. In 2020,
49 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, the Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands will receive PILT pay-
ments. The recommendation includes full funding for PILT for fis-
cal year 2021 in Section 115 of Title I General Provisions.
PERFORMANCE MEASURES
The Committee directs all agencies funded by this Act to comply
with title 31 of the United States Code, including the development
of their organizational priority goals and outcomes such as per-
formance outcome measures, ouput measures, efficiency measures,
and customer service measures.
RACE, COMMUNITY AND OUR SHARED FUTURE INITIATIVE
The Committee is supportive of the Smithsonian’s new initiative
‘‘Race, Community and Our Shared Future’’ to help the nation ex-
plore how we, as a country, understand and experience race, and
how we confront its impact on communities. Over the next year,
the Smithsonian expects to hold a series of town halls and other
virtual gatherings across the country to reach a wide audience and
engage numerous partners as well as experts from within the
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Smithsonian Institution. The Committee supports the aim of this
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initiative to have conversations that bring people together and to
discuss important questions surrounding monuments, memorials,
and other symbols, including who they are named after. The Com-
mittee is confident that bringing the Secretary of the Smithsonian’s
scholarship and historical perspective to bear on these conversa-
tions about how to represent and contextualize the past and bring
forgotten stories and narratives into our national memory will help
this nation chart a better path forward. The Secretary of the
Smithsonian is encouraged to engage other federal agencies in this
initiative and is directed to report to the Committee on a quarterly
basis on scheduled and planned discussions, audiences reached,
partner participation, and any actionable items that have resulted
from this initiative.
The Secretary of the Interior is directed to work with the Smith-
sonian Institution on this new initiative, specifically in discussions
on questions surrounding monuments, memorials, and other sym-
bols, including who they are named after. The Department is fur-
ther directed to submit quarterly reports to the Committee summa-
rizing such engagement with this initiative.
The Committee notes the Woodrow Wilson International Center
for Scholars’ public statement that Woodrow Wilson held racist
views and implemented racist policies as President of Princeton
University and President of the United States and expects that this
acknowledgement will allow the Center to clearly examine history
and continue their nonpartisan research and open dialogue. In
light of this, the Committee supports the Wilson Center Board of
Trustees resolution to partner with the Smithsonian on this initia-
tive.
REPROGRAMMING GUIDELINES
Reprogramming guidelines were codified in Division D of P.L.
116–94 and outlined in the accompanying explanatory statement.
Bill language and direction is maintained to protect the integrity
of this Committee.
TRIBAL CONSULTATION
The Committee notes with concern the frustrations heard from
Tribes about agency failures to conduct ‘‘true’’ and ‘‘meaningful’’
government-to-government consultation. Although the level of frus-
tration varies by agency and event, the common theme is that
while most consultations solicit input and feedback from Tribes,
the communication is one way and fails to return feedback to
Tribes. Tribes often report that they don’t know whether and how
their input is considered. On decisions made in consultation with
Tribes, the Committee expects agencies funded in this bill to pub-
lish decision rationale in the context of and in reasonable detail to
the Tribal input received during consultation.
WOOD UTILITY POLES
The increased demand for larger wood utility poles to sustain
and improve storm and fire resiliency to the electric grid has cre-
ated a supply challenge. The Forest Service and Bureau of Land
Management are strongly encouraged to prioritize work within the
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current structure of the existing timber sale program, the Shared
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12
Stewardship program, the Good Neighbor Authority program, the
Co-Intent program, and other available programs to foster addi-
tional production of wood utility poles that meet modern size specs
of the U.S. electric utility industry while ensuring the ecological
needs of local landscapes.
PUBLIC ACCESS
The Department of the Interior and the U.S. Forest Service are
directed to notify the House and Senate Committees on Appropria-
tions in advance of any proposed project specifically intending to
close an area to recreational shooting, hunting, or fishing on a non-
emergency basis of more than 30 days.
TITLE I—DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
MANAGEMENT OF LANDS AND RESOURCES
(INCLUDING RESCISSION OF FUNDS)
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $1,237,015,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 1,101,853,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 1,206,425,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... ¥30,590,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +104,572,000
The Committee recommends $1,206,425,000 in new budget au-
thority for the Management of Lands and Resources appropriation.
This amount is $30,590,000 below the enacted level and
$104,572,000 above the budget request. The recommendation also
includes a rescission of $17,000,000 in unobligated prior year bal-
ances. Details of the recommendation are explained in the nar-
rative below and through the table at the back of this report.
Land Resources.—The Committee recommends $240,468,000 for
Land Resources, $4,226,000 above the enacted level and $3,426,000
above the budget request. Changes to the request include an in-
crease of $16,116,000 to restore proposed reductions in rangeland
management and cultural resources management; an increase of
$1,500,000 in cultural resources management to continue work on
the information management system for predictive modeling and
data analysis; and a reduction of $14,190,000 in the wild horse and
burro program for a recommended level of $102,620,000.
With respect to the wild horse and burro program, the Com-
mittee is finally in receipt of the Bureau’s report to Congress origi-
nally requested in 2018 and again last year. While the Committee
appreciates the data supplied by the Bureau, particularly with re-
spect to quantifying the extra personnel needed and estimated five-
year costs associated with a significant ramp up of its current ef-
forts, it is also clear that a well-defined action plan for actually im-
plementing this strategy is still to be presented. Despite the pro-
gram having recently suffered the loss of its division chief, its pro-
gram officer, and its budget officer, among others, bipartisan and
bicameral discussions with Bureau officials continue. The Com-
mittee looks forward to working with the Bureau and the Senate
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as the appropriations process moves forward and fully expects to
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13
reach a successful outcome in terms of funding and implementa-
tion.
Wildlife and Aquatic Habitat Management.—The Committee rec-
ommends $190,170,000 for Wildlife and Aquatic Habitat Manage-
ment, $3,666,000 above the enacted level and $75,006,000 above
the budget request. Changes to the request include an increase of
$73,006,000 in wildlife habitat and aquatic habitat management to
restore proposed reductions; and an increase of $2,000,000 in wild-
life habitat management for threatened and endangered species
work for a total in that area of $23,567,000. The Committee notes
that, at the recommend level, $64,000,000 is available for sage
grouse conservation activities.
Recreation Management.—The Committee recommends
$78,539,000 for Recreation Management, $2,810,000 above the en-
acted level and $2,863,000 above the budget request. Changes to
the request include an increase of $1,863,000 in wilderness man-
agement to restore the proposed reduction; and an increase of
$1,000,000 in recreation resources management for the national
scenic and historic trails program. The Committee endorses the re-
quested increase of $799,000 for recreational access.
Energy and Minerals.—The Committee recommends
$197,561,000 for Energy and Minerals, $457,000 above the enacted
level and $1,749,000 below the budget request. Changes to the re-
quest include a reduction of $3,000,000 in oil and gas management;
a reduction of $3,749,000 in coal management; and an increase of
$5,000,000 in renewable energy.
Realty and Ownership Management.—The Committee rec-
ommends $77,514,000 for Realty and Ownership Management,
$3,389,000 above the enacted level and equal to the budget request.
Resource Protection and Maintenance.—The Committee rec-
ommends $104,141,000 for Resource Protection and Maintenance,
$29,100,000 below the enacted level and $1,000,000 above the
budget request. Changes to the request include a restoration of the
proposed reduction in resource protection. The Committee notes
that at the recommended level, $8,000,000 is available in resource
management planning for sage grouse conservation activities.
Transportation and Facilities Maintenance.—The Committee rec-
ommends $100,550,000 for Transportation and Facilities Mainte-
nance, $14,450,000 below the enacted level and $15,000,000 above
the budget request. Changes to the request include an increase of
$15,000,000 to partially restore the reduction in deferred mainte-
nance.
Workforce and Organizational Support.—The Committee rec-
ommends $168,141,000, for Workforce and Organizational Support,
$7,110,000 below the enacted level and $2,681,000 below the budg-
et request. Changes to the request include a reduction of
$2,681,000 in the bureauwide fixed costs subactivity.
National Landscape Conservation System.—The Committee rec-
ommends $49,341,000 for the National Landscape Conservation
System, $5,522,000 above the enacted level and $11,707,000 above
the budget request. Changes to the request include a program in-
crease of $11,707,000, of which $6,707,000 is to restore proposed re-
ductions and a general program increase of $5,000,000 for en-
hanced inventory and monitoring activities and operational re-
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quirements mandated by recent legislative additions.
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Communication Site Management.—The Committee recommends
$2,000,000 for communications site management, equal to the
budget request. This amount is reduced by $2,000,000 in offsetting
collections.
Mining Law Administration.—The Committee recommends
$39,696,000 for mining law administration, equal to the budget re-
quest. This amount is offset by $63,000,000 in offsetting collections.
Rescission.—The Committee recommends a rescission of
$17,000,000 in unobligated balances from funds made available
under this heading in prior fiscal years.
Additional Guidance.—
Aquifer Recharge.—The Committee encourages the Bureau to
work with the state of Idaho to provide appropriate access to fed-
eral lands for the purposes of recharge projects.
Bighorn Sheep.—The Committee is aware that the Bureau uses
data supplied by the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife
Agencies in conducting Risk of Contact analyses. The Committee
urges the Bureau to continue to share findings with other Federal
land management agencies, State and local governments, State
wildlife agencies, and State and Federal animal health profes-
sionals, including the Agricultural Research Service, permittees,
and stakeholders, so that risk of disease transmission between do-
mestic and bighorn sheep is better understood and considered.
Cadastral Survey.—The Committee directs the Bureau to con-
tinue executing the survey requirements of the Hawaiian Home
Lands Recovery Act. P.L. 104–42, as soon as public health condi-
tions allow. The Bureau shall consult with Homestead Beneficiary
Associations, as defined under 43 C.F.R. § 47.1, when conducting
these surveys.
Competitive Leasing Rule.—The Committee strongly encourages
the Secretary to issue a Secretarial Order to grandfather projects
that were under construction or development, or for which an ap-
plication had been accepted when the Bureau of Land Management
issued the December 19, 2016, rule entitled ‘‘Competitive Processes,
Terms, and Conditions for Leasing Public Lands for Solar and
Wind Energy Development and Technical Changes and Corrections.
Diversity Statistics.—The Bureau is encouraged to consider the
feasibility of adding diversity reporting requirement to commercial
filming projects on Bureau-managed lands.
Gay Mine.—The Committee is aware of long-standing reclama-
tion issues at the Gay Mine site in Idaho and the desire of local
stakeholders to see the project addressed. Using available funds,
the Committee therefore directs the Bureau to initiate a reclama-
tion study addressing the high walls and pit lakes on the Gay Mine
Superfund Site located on the Fort Hall Reservation. The Bureau
should engage in consultations with the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes,
the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Environmental Protection Agen-
cy, the State of Idaho, and relevant companies to study potential
reclamation solutions on the Site. Within 180 days of enactment of
this Act, the Bureau shall provide astatus report on these efforts.
Off-Highway Vehicle Pilot Program.—The Bureau is once again
directed to provide a report to the Committee on the status of the
Bureau’s efforts regarding the directive contained in House Report
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115–765.
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Plant Conservation Activities.—The Committee continues to sup-
port the Bureau’s Plant Conservation Program and has provided
funding for the program at no less than the enacted level to con-
tinue this activity and directs that it be operated consistent with
prior years. The Committee expects the Bureau to work to lead the
interagency Native Plant Materials Development program, the
Seeds of Success program, the Plant Conservation Alliance, several
regional native plant materials development programs, and related
research and programmatic activity. The Committee also continues
to support the implementation of the national seed strategy.
National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.—The Committee appre-
ciates the long-standing partnership between the Fish and Wildlife
Foundation, a congressionally chartered institution, and several bu-
reaus within the Interior Department, particularly the Bureau of
Land Management. The Committee urges the Bureau to continue
this partnership and agrees that, at the Bureau’s discretion, funds
made available under this appropriation may be used for critical
conservation activities, pursuant to 16 U.S.C.3701 et seq., under
the same term and conditions as outlined under this heading in
Title I of Division G of P.L. 115–31, the fiscal year 2017 Interior,
Environment and Related Agencies Act.
Rio Puerco Watershed Program.—The Committee reiterates its
support for the Rio Puerco Watershed Program and encourages the
Bureau to continue its financial support.
Rural Airstrips.—Within available funds, the Committee expects
the Bureau to maintain rural airstrips located on Federal land.
Soda Ash.—The Committee is aware of the concern regarding the
United States’ global competitiveness in the production of natural
soda ash and would welcome input from the Bureau on how to
maintain such competitiveness, particularly with respect to the
proper level of royalty rate.
Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act (SNPLMA).—
The Committee has not recommended the rescission of funds from
this account as proposed in the budget request.
Water Quality.—The Committee encourages BLM to work with
Blaine County and interested community stakeholders to address
the increased sediment buildup in the Hulen Meadows Pond by ex-
amining collaborative solutions to restoring the pond to adequate
health through dredging and other cost effective measures.
LAND ACQUISITION
(INCLUDING RESCISSION OF FUNDS)
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $32,300,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 3,000,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 0
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +32,300,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ ¥3,000,000
As explained in the front matter under the heading ‘‘Land and
Water Conservation Fund,’’ the Committee has not recommended
discretionary funding for the Land Acquisition account. Rather,
funding will now come from the Fund as a result of the Great
American Outdoors Act. The recommendation does include a rescis-
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sion of $2,000,000 of prior year unobligated balances.
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OREGON AND CALIFORNIA GRANT LANDS
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $112,094,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 112,809,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 115,607,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +3,513,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +2,798,000
The Committee recommends $115,607,000 for the Oregon and
California Grant Lands appropriation. This amount is $3,513,000
above the enacted level and $2,798,000 above the budget request.
The recommendation restores proposed reductions of $1,798,000 in
information and resource data systems and $1,000,000 in transpor-
tation and facility maintenance.
Fire protection.—The Committee directs the Bureau to refrain
from any actions that would withdraw the Bureau from its fire pro-
tection agreement with the State of Oregon.
Timber targets.—The Committee continues to be troubled by the
disparity in timber targets compared with timber awarded and har-
vested on some districts. The Bureau is once again directed to
prioritize response to administrative protests on timber sales in a
timely manner and to report timber sale accomplishments in vol-
ume of timber sold and awarded, rather than merely the volume
offered for sale, and shall report to the Committee on its progress.
RANGE IMPROVEMENTS
The Committee recommends an indefinite appropriation of not
less than $10,000,000 to be derived from public lands receipts and
Bankhead-Jones Farm Tenant Act lands grazing receipts, as re-
quested.
SERVICE CHARGES, DEPOSITS, AND FORFEITURES
The Committee recommends an indefinite appropriation esti-
mated to be $28,000,000 for Service Charges, Deposits, and Forfeit-
ures, as requested. The appropriation is fully offset through collec-
tions. The recommendation also includes a rescission of
$20,000,000 in unobligated balances in fiscal year 2015 and prior
fiscal years.
MISCELLANEOUS TRUST FUNDS
The Committee recommends an indefinite appropriation esti-
mated to be $26,000,000, as requested.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
The Committee recommends inclusion of the Administrative Pro-
visions proposed in the budget request and notes that they are
long-standing items that facilitate efficient operations.
UNITED STATES FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Originating in 1871, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service
(Service) is the oldest federal conservation agency, and the only
agency in the federal government, whose primary responsibility is
management of fish and wildlife for the American public. The Serv-
ice plays an important role in connecting Americans with nature
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and in maintaining and protecting the Nation’s natural resources
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17
for present and future generations. This requires strict enforcement
of important and foundational environmental laws such as the En-
dangered Species Act (ESA), Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA),
Marine Mammal Protection Act, Lacey Act, and international trea-
ties like the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Spe-
cies (CITES).
Over 59 million visitors are welcomed each year to the National
Wildlife Refuge System, consisting of 568 National Wildlife Refuges
located in every State and many territories. These refuges operate
as a national network of lands and waters for the conservation,
management, and restoration of fish, wildlife, and plant resources
and habitats. The Service also operates one historic National Fish
Hatchery and 70 National Fish Hatcheries that work with states
and tribes to propagate fish to bolster or re-establish self-sus-
taining populations in the wild and mitigate impacts associated
with Federal water projects.
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
(INCLUDING TRANSFER AND RESCISSION OF FUNDS)
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $1,364,289,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 1,281,217,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 1,387,278,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +22,989,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +106,061,000
The Committee recommends $1,387,278,000 for Resource Man-
agement, $22,989,000 above the enacted level and $106,061,000
above the budget request. In fiscal year 2020 Congress directed the
Service to submit a Cooperative Landscape Conservation report to
the Committees within 60 days of enactment. The enacted bill
withheld $1,000,000 from obligation in Central Office Operations
until the Service submitted the report. The Service failed to submit
the report and, consequently, the bill rescinds $1,000,000 from Cen-
tral Office Operations. The recommendation approves the transfer
of $2,311,000 from Resource Management to the Departmental
Ethics Office to restructure the ethics program and fixed costs as
requested, but does not provide any requested program changes un-
less specifically addressed below. Recommended program changes,
instructions, and details follow below and in the table at the end
of this report. Additional instructions are included in the front of
this report.
Ecological Services.—The recommendation includes $278,308,000
for Ecological Services to protect landscapes, fish, wildlife, and
plants by administering the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and re-
lated activities, $12,296,000 above the enacted level and
$34,161,000 above the budget request. The recommendation con-
tinues the fiscal year 2020 Congressional initiative to rectify the
underfunding this program has experienced in the recent past by
providing additional resources to strengthen efforts to conserve our
natural resources for future generations and to ensure the protec-
tion of important ecosystems such as the Chesapeake Bay, the Ev-
erglades, and the California Bay-Delta.
Listing.—The recommendation includes $21,037,000 for ESA list-
ings and related activities, $719,000 above the enacted level and
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$11,662,000 above the budget request. Through the listing process,
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18
the best scientific and commercial information on a species is ana-
lyzed so a determination can be made on whether the survival of
a species requires the protections afforded by the ESA. This rec-
ommendation does not approve the listing activities reduction pro-
posed in the budget request and provides an additional $500,000 to
build capacity to help the Service work closely with States and
Tribes as they evaluate the over 350 species that are potentially in
need of protection under the ESA; develop a National Listing
workplan; undertake 90-day and 12-month petition findings; and
develop listing, 4(d), and critical habitat rules as required by law.
Bill language is continued as requested to protect the rest of the
Resource Management account from listing-related judicial man-
dates. The Committee directs the Service to support the efforts of
local and regional stakeholders to develop voluntary solutions to
conserve targeted species by issuing a framework for the review of
conservation plans for those species that would facilitate permit-
ting such plans under the ESA. The Committee expects this will
help achieve the goals of encouraging voluntary conservation and
avoiding the necessity of listing those species under the ESA. The
Service is directed to provide a briefing to the Committee on its ef-
forts to develop such guidance within 120 days of enactment of this
Act.
Planning and Consultation.—The recommendation includes
$111,202,000 for timely evaluations and permitting of development
projects to ensure species are protected while allowing for develop-
ment that contributes to economic growth and job creation. This
recommendation is $2,186,000 above the enacted level and
$3,384,000 above the budget request. This recommendation pro-
vides $3,500,000 for National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
streamlining as well as an additional $500,000 to build field capac-
ity and focus on technical assistance to Federal agencies and
project proponents and to work with States, counties and private
landowners to develop planning grants and create Habitat Con-
servation Plans; to enhance the Integrated Planning and Conserva-
tion (IPaC) system; and to develop a system for compliance moni-
toring and enforcement to ensure adequate implementation of the
ESA and the integration of monitoring data into management deci-
sions. The reductions or increases proposed in the budget request
are not accepted.
The Committee acknowledges that the Service has issued guid-
ance to field offices and will be updating the Habitat Conservation
Plan (HCP) Handbook on streamlining ESA section 7(a)(2) con-
sultations on federal actions that authorize, fund, or carry out a
covered activity that affects listed species in an approved HCP
which covers those species as permitted under section 10(a)(1)(B).
Conservation and Restoration.—The recommendation includes
$34,661,000 for Conservation and Restoration, $965,000 above the
enacted level and $6,075,000 above the budget request. The rec-
ommendation does not include any of the proposed reductions but
provides $500,000 for the at-risk species initiative outlined in the
budget request. This increase will help the Service support ESA
section 10 enhancement of survival permit applications. The Serv-
ice is encouraged to continue to work with partners to conserve
species and avoid listing by identifying and alleviating threats,
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such as invasive species and climate change, and protecting eco-
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19
system services and biodiversity. The Committee directs the De-
partment to involve the Service in any decision made by the Bu-
reau of Land Management on energy leasing where leasing will im-
pact species.
Recovery.—The recommendation includes $111,408,000 for ESA
recovery activities, $8,426,000 above the enacted level and
$13,040,000 above the request. The recommendation does not ac-
cept the proposed budget reductions and provides $4,373,000 for
de-listing and down-listing; $100,000 for Florida Grasshopper;
$1,659,000 for Ecosystem Restoration—Bay Delta; $1,000,000 for
Wolf Livestock Demonstration Program; $1,200,000 for the Prescott
Grant Program; $2,000,000 for White Nose Syndrome; $3,500,000
for State of the Birds, $250,000 above the enacted level; $8,000,000
for Recovery Challenge grants, $1,000,000 above the enacted level;
and $3,000,000 for listed species housed in partner facilities for
captive propagation to support recovery and reintroduction efforts
and to maintain genetic diversity, especially at facilities impacted
by the coronavirus. The Committee supports the Service’s work
with States and Tribes to fully utilize the Wolf Livestock Dem-
onstration grant funding.
The Committee has long championed the need for listing deci-
sions to be based on science, not politics. In the current political
climate, the Committee remains concerned about proposals to re-
move iconic species from the endangered species list before there
are assurances that adequate protections are in place to ensure
their survivability. The gray wolf is an example of a species of con-
cern. The killing of a collared gray wolf, OR 59 and the discovery
of another deceased collared gray wolf OR 54 in February 2020, il-
lustrate why the Committee remains concerned about the adequacy
of protections. The Committee directs that if the Service is going
to delist a species based on the best available science, the Service
must first carefully analyze state management plans to ensure ade-
quate protections will be in place and then establish a stringent
monitoring system that guarantees there is rigorous enforcement of
those plans.
Recovery Challenge matching grants are to be used to develop
and implement recovery outlines, update recovery plans, and im-
plement high priority recovery actions as prescribed in recovery
plans. Actions should include but are not limited to genetically-
sound breeding, rearing, and reintroduction programs. Long-
standing partnerships, including for the northern aplomado falcon
and California condor, should be funded at no less than their cur-
rent levels and partner contributions should be no less than their
current amounts. The remaining funds should be dedicated to other
multi-year partnerships and should require at least a 50:50 partner
match, which may include in-kind services. Unless an affected
State is a partner on the project, none of the funds may be award-
ed to a project until the project partners have consulted with such
State. The Service is expected to continue to work with the Na-
tional Fish and Wildlife Foundation to administer a portion of the
program in full consultation with the Service and subject to Service
approval of all grants and cooperative agreements. This approach
allows Service funds to be leveraged and expands recovery actions.
The Service is also expected to administer a portion of the program
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itself in support of partnerships to develop and implement recovery
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20
outlines, update recovery plans, and implement recovery actions
benefiting species for which the National Fish and Wildlife Founda-
tion is not engaged in conservation efforts. None of the funds may
be used for indirect costs. The Service is to provide a report to the
Committee 120 days after enactment of this Act which shall in-
clude the allocation of funds between the Service and the National
Fish and Wildlife Foundation and an evaluation of this collabora-
tion; a breakdown of funding by project which contains appro-
priated and matching funds and the estimated projection comple-
tion year; and the amount of highly-ranked but unfunded project
proposals.
The Service is directed to focus on recovery activities for critically
endangered species at the brink of extinction as a result of climate
change. The Committee understands the Service incorporates cli-
mate change adaptation actions and activities into new and revised
recovery plans and recovery implementation strategies, such as
with the mosquito vector of avian pox and malaria in the revised
Hawaiian Forest Birds recovery plan. The Service is directed to re-
port back to the Committee within 90 days of enactment of this Act
on how it is prioritizing recovery actions that improve a species’ re-
siliency, redundancy, and representation so that a species is able
to withstand the impacts of climate change and show direct evi-
dence that these actions are incorporated into new and revised re-
covery plans.
The Committee recommendation maintains funding at the en-
acted level for the Service’s work on the Upper Colorado River En-
dangered Fish Recovery Program and the San Juan River Basin
Recovery Implementation Program.
Habitat Conservation.—The recommendation includes
$71,022,000 for voluntary, non-regulatory habitat conservation
partnerships with public and private landowners, of which
$57,488,000 is to implement the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Act
and $13,534,000 is for the Coastal Program. This recommendation
is $696,000 above the enacted level and $868,000 above the re-
quest. The recommendation does not include the increases and re-
ductions proposed in the budget request for Partners for Fish and
Wildlife and the Coastal Program except for fixed costs and the
ethics transfer. For the Partners for Fish and Wildlife program, the
recommendation includes funding for nutria eradication at the en-
acted level. As of 2018, the Service has stated that all the known
nutria populations have been removed from over a quarter million
acres of the Delmarva Peninsula and efforts continue to verify
eradication and remove any residual animals. Despite this success,
nutria is becoming an emerging problem in other parts of the coun-
try. The Service is to focus available resources to work with part-
ners to achieve control and eradication of all nutria populations
and to help partners restore land damaged by nutria. The Service
is also encouraged to focus Coastal Program funding on projects
that address the threat of invasive species and climate change.
National Wildlife Refuge System.—The recommendation includes
$510,842,000 for the National Wildlife Refuge System, $8,438,000
above the enacted level and $14,479,000 below the budget request.
Since fiscal year 2017, the Service has been responsive to Con-
gressional direction to institute signage on any national wildlife
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refuge where trapping occurs. In fiscal year 2020, the Service was
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21
to update the information posted on the website and physical prem-
ises of any refuge to note if body-gripping traps were on the prem-
ises. To further protect the public, the Committee encourages the
Service to conduct a review of this signage and ensure the signage
is in good, readable condition, and to replace any damaged or
unreadable signs within 30 days of identification. The Service is to
continue the reporting requirement to provide trapping information
to the Committee on an annual basis. The Service is also to brief
the Committee within 90 days of enactment of this Act on the ad-
ministration, logistics, and data management that would be re-
quired to conduct a pilot program to replace the use of body-grip-
ping traps with non-lethal methods and equipment.
Wildlife and Habitat Management.—The recommendation in-
cludes $243,461,000, $4,849,000 above the enacted level and
$6,004,000 below the budget request. The Committee does not sup-
port the proposed increases or reductions in the budget request ex-
cept for fixed costs and the ethics transfer and provides an increase
of $2,000,000 over the enacted level for Invasive Species Strike
Teams. In fiscal year 2020, the Service strategically funded 12
Invasive Species Strike Teams spread across the Refuge System,
including one team dedicated to the Pacific Islands, to focus on
early detection and rapid response. The additional resources pro-
vided will allow the Service to focus on perennial problems with
invasive species such as Old-World climbing fern and nutria. The
Service is encouraged to continue to partner with USDA/Wildlife
Services and state departments of fish and wildlife to eradicate
invasive species. The Committee understands the use of native
plant materials increases resilience, reduces invasive species, and
creates a more effective deterrent to fire. The Service has also in-
formed the Committee that it favors management that restores or
mimics natural ecosystem processes using native seed sources and
native plants in ecological restoration. Within 180 days of enact-
ment of this Act, the Service is directed to brief the Committee on
the use of native plants in refuge restoration and the guidelines it
has in place to maintain existing levels of biological integrity, di-
versity, and environmental health. The Committee supports the
continued collaboration of Service staff with NOAA, USGS, and
other partners to monitor coral disease in refuge and monument
waters. This recommendation maintains the enacted level of fund-
ing to support refuge biologists, management activities, and coral
disease studies.
Regional refuges, such as the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and
Wildlife Refuge, effectively work with local communities and land-
owners to achieve collaborative conservation. The Committee en-
courages the Service to continue these efforts and to provide the
highest level of funding available to these refuges to build upon
this exemplary work. The Service is also encouraged to review
staffing levels at all refuges to ensure they have the capacity to ful-
fill their mission, including refuge complexes like the Chesapeake
Marshlands National Wildlife Refuge Complex.
The National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997
includes a process for determining compatible uses on refuges that
will not detract from the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge
System (NWRS) to conserve fish, wildlife, and plants and their
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habitats. The Act directs the Secretary of the Interior to ensure the
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22
biological integrity, diversity, and environmental health of the
NWRS are maintained for the benefit of present and future genera-
tions. The Committee understands the Service is in the process of
updating their current right-of-way policy (340 FW 3) that was de-
veloped in 1993. The revised policy, which will be published in the
Federal Register, will provide criteria by which a determination
can be made on applications for expansions of existing rights-of-
way. The Service is to brief the Committee on this revised policy
and how it supports the requirement that each refuge is managed
to fulfill the specific purposes for which the refuge was established
and the mission of the NWRS.
Visitor Services.—The recommendation includes $76,304,000,
$2,077,000 above the enacted level and $10,515,000 below the
budget request. The recommendation does not include any of the
requested increases except for fixed costs and restores the reduc-
tions proposed in the budget request for Youth and Careers in Na-
ture, which includes tribal youth. The recommendation does not
support the reduction for Urban Wildlife Conservation and provides
an additional $1,000,000 above the enacted level. With a national
wildlife refuge located within a one-hour drive of nearly every
major metropolitan area, this increase for urban refuges enables
the Service to improve access and engage new audiences in outdoor
recreation and conservation. The Service is encouraged to work
with partners to support year-round environmental education for
youth and adults of all ages living in urban settings.
Refuge Law Enforcement.—Federal Wildlife Officers are the face
of the Refuge System. The recommendation includes $41,625,000,
$625,000 above the enacted level and $2,442,000 below the budget
request. The Committee directs the Service to ensure every refuge
has law enforcement coverage by a Federal Wildlife Officer.
Conservation Planning.—The recommendation provides
$2,523,000, equal to the enacted level and $2,523,000 above the
budget request.
Refuge Maintenance.—The recommendation includes
$146,929,000, $887,000 above the enacted level and $1,959,000
above the budget request. The recommendation does not support
the proposed elimination of funding for the Youth Conservation
Corps and instead provides the enacted level. The Committee
agrees with the request to increase funding for deferred mainte-
nance by $4,287,000 for a total of $46,579,000 but achieves it by
reducing equipment and vehicle management by $2,787,000 instead
of the proposed reduction of $4,463,000, and by reducing annual
maintenance by $1,500,000 as requested in the budget. The Service
has continued to reduce the deferred maintenance backlog at ref-
uges like Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, and when formu-
lating the fiscal year 2022 budget is encouraged to include a pri-
ority list of refuges where the visitor experience would be enhanced
by the construction of facilities for public recreation and environ-
mental education. The Committee recognizes the Service’s effort to
prioritize maintenance and restoration of units within the refuge
system that were damaged by Hurricanes Sandy and Irene.
Migratory Bird Management.—The recommendation includes
$49,498,000 for Migratory Bird Management, $2,041,000 above the
enacted level and $505,000 above the budget request. The rec-
ctelli on DSK30NT082PROD with REPORTS
ommendation provides $29,210,000 for Conservation and Moni-
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23
toring which includes fixed costs and the proposed ethics transfer
but does not support any other proposed increases or decreases.
The Committee encourages the Service to continue its efforts to
work with landowners to reduce black vulture predation on live-
stock and to manage double crested cormorants. The recommenda-
tion provides $16,253,000 for North American Waterfowl Manage-
ment Plan/Joint Ventures, a programmatic increase of $1,500,000
above the enacted level. This program is essential for addressing
the conservation needs of migratory birds by leveraging matching
contributions from partners. This increase will expand the tech-
nical assistance provided to conservation partners and help address
the void created in some regions of the country by the dismantling
of the landscape conservation cooperatives.
The Committee remains concerned about the December 22, 2017
legal opinion on the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA), M–37050,
that no longer prohibits incidental take, which is contrary to the
long-standing interpretation of this Act. The Committee will be
monitoring the Service’s response to the public comments received
by the March 19, 2020 deadline on proposed rule FWS–HQ–MB–
2018–0090–0002. Statistics on the Service website make clear that
migratory birds and their habitats remain at risk and that inci-
dental take remains a threat. The Service is to continue to report
quarterly on the number of enforcement actions on the MBTA and
its work with industry on voluntary actions to mitigate the impacts
from development or activities that could result in incidental cap-
ture or mortality of migratory birds. This information should be
compared to statistics from five years prior to M–37050. This re-
port should also include the costs associated with enforcement and
a comparison of what was expended in the five years prior to M–
37050.
Law Enforcement.—The recommendation includes $83,942,000
for Law Enforcement, $1,889,000 above the enacted level, and
$6,464,000 above the budget request. The recommendation does not
include the proposed reductions for the Indian Arts and Crafts
Board and for law enforcement activities. The Committee also does
not support the proposed reduction for wildlife trafficking and in-
stead includes an increase of $1,000,000 above the enacted level to
enhance efforts to combat illegal trade and to help place and care
for live animals that are confiscated by the Service as a result of
enforcement actions. The Committee understands Service inspec-
tion fees have been impacted by a decline in domestic and inter-
national shipments due to the coronavirus. As in prior years, this
increase may be used as necessary to supplement inspections.
International Affairs.—The recommendation includes $23,230,000
for International Affairs, $4,404,000 above the enacted level and
$4,337,000 above the budget request. The recommendation includes
an increase of $3,000,000 for permitting modernization and pro-
vides fixed costs but does not include any of the proposed reduc-
tions except for the ethics transfer and the $550,000 no longer re-
quired for the Arctic Council since the U.S. is no longer the chair.
The Committee supports the Service’s efforts to replace its out-of-
date permit processing infrastructure with a modernized Service-
wide electronic permit application and processing system.
The Committee recognizes the Service’s work with Honduras, El
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Salvador, Guatemala, and Mexico to conserve priority species and
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24
ecosystems, including partnering with the U.S. Agency for Inter-
national Development (USAID) to support community forestry con-
cessions and tropical forest conservation in the Maya Biosphere Re-
serve, and urges the continuation of these international partner-
ships in fiscal year 2021 as well as the timely disbursement of
funding. The Committee directs the Service to provide no less than
$1,121,481 for these grants to promote research, training, and de-
velopment of best practices for international conservation, and to
submit a report within 60 days of the enactment of this Act on
these efforts.
Since 1989, the Service has provided critical financial assistance
to Central African countries that has created stability and im-
proved local economies while conserving species of shared impor-
tance and concern, protecting vital landscapes, and combatting
wildlife trafficking. This financial assistance includes the transfer
of funding from USAID for the Central Africa Regional Program for
the Environment which began in 2007. Despite repeated inquiries,
the Department has not been responsive nor kept the Committee
adequately informed about the lack of the timely disbursement of
the fiscal year 2018 international grant funding to their intended
recipients. Congress has provided the resources for the Department
to continue to administer and execute these programs with ade-
quate safeguards to protect these funds from being used in viola-
tion of U.S. law. Conversations with partner agencies, such as
USAID, that routinely provide grant funding to the same countries
should have enabled to Department to further strengthen such
safeguards to allow for the disbursement of these funds. The Serv-
ice is directed to brief the Committee on a quarterly basis on the
disbursement and obligation of international grants from fiscal
year 2018 to the current fiscal year. This briefing is to include a
discussion of the oversight and safeguards that have been insti-
tuted to prevent the misuse of these funds. The Committee reminds
the Service and the Department that the Impoundment Control Act
of 1974 is prescriptive as to when the Executive Branch may pre-
clude or delay the expenditure of budget authority, and only allows
such action in three very narrow circumstances.
The current understanding of the recent outbreak of the
coronavirus, COVID–19, is that it originated in a market where
live and slaughtered wildlife are sold for human consumption.
These markets create a high-risk environment for viruses to be
transmitted from wildlife to humans. While more research is need-
ed on zoonotic diseases, the Service is directed to use the additional
resources provided and its role as a participant in International fo-
rums to initiate a dialogue and work collaboratively with inter-
national partners to stop dangerous wildlife practices that threaten
global public health. The Service is to report to the Committee 60
days after the enactment of this Act on actions it takes in response
to this directive and the resulting outcome.
The Committee reiterates its concern about the Service’s current
policy of evaluating applications for importing trophies for ele-
phants and lions on a case-by-case basis and whether its analysis
adequately determines whether a country has proper safeguards in
place to protect species vulnerable to poaching. In fiscal year 2020,
the Service was directed to reevaluate its current policy and ana-
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lyze how targeted investments and technical assistance to the ex-
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25
porting countries conservation programs would impact the survival
of elephants and lions, improve local communities, and sustain spe-
cies populations. The inability of the Service to comply with the di-
rective to brief the Committee within 60 days of enactment indi-
cates the Service does not have the necessary information at hand
to make these determinations. Therefore, the Committee includes
bill language that prohibits the issuance of any permit for the im-
port of a sport-hunted trophy of an elephant or lion taken in Tan-
zania, Zimbabwe, or Zambia. The limitation described does not
apply in the case of the administration of a tax or tariff.
The Committee also acknowledges and commends the enactment
of the Defending Economic Livelihoods and Threatened Animals
(DELTA) Act in 2018 and urges the Service, especially its Inter-
national Affairs and Office of Law Enforcement programs, to work
with Angola, Namibia, and Botswana in combating poaching and
wildlife trafficking and strengthening protected area management,
including through trans-boundary conservation programs in the re-
gion, with an initial focus on Angola.
Fish and Aquatic Conservation.—The recommendation includes
$206,907,000 for Fish and Aquatic Conservation, $1,430,000 above
the enacted level and $50,793,000 above the budget request. The
Service is expected to continue to work with partners and the pub-
lic to manage fish and other aquatic resources for the benefit of the
American people.
National Fish Hatchery System Operations.—The recommenda-
tion provides $64,920,000 for National Fish Hatchery Systems Op-
erations, $648,000 above the enacted level and $8,931,000 above
the budget request. This funding level does not support the reduc-
tions proposed in the budget for the Great Lakes Consent Decree;
the national wild fish health survey program; mass marking
salmonids in the Pacific Northwest; and the Aquatic Animal Drug
Approval Partnership and maintains funding for these programs at
the enacted level. The recommendation also provides $2,950,000 for
Klamath Restoration and in lieu of the requested increase of
$1,394,000 for hatchery system operations, directs the Service to
use $800,000 from within available funds for four highly skilled bi-
ologists to work with States, Tribes and other partners to fulfill
Tribal trust responsibilities and conserve and restore aquatic spe-
cies.
The recommended funding level provides the resources required
to sustain current hatchery operations. The Service may not termi-
nate operations or close any facility of the National Fish Hatchery
System. None of the production programs listed in the March 2013
National Fish Hatchery System Strategic Hatchery and Workforce
Planning Report may be reduced or terminated without advance,
informal consultation with affected States and Tribes.
The Service is expected to continue funding mitigation hatchery
programs via reimbursable agreements with Federal partners. Fu-
ture agreements should include reimbursement for production, fa-
cilities, and administrative costs. The Service is expected to ensure
that its costs are fully reimbursed before proposing to reduce or re-
direct base funding.
The Committee encourages the Service to carry out sampling of
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re-introduced lake sturgeon and monitor the survival of juvenile
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26
lake sturgeon after they are stocked to determine whether the
stocking rates should be increased to meet the target stock level.
Maintenance and Equipment.—The recommendation provides
$25,953,000, $107,000 above the enacted level and $158,000 below
the budget request. This funding level does not accept the proposed
reduction and maintains $16,137,000 to reduce the deferred main-
tenance backlog. The Service should continue to allocate this fund-
ing to facilities with the most severe health and safety deficiencies
across the System as a whole, rather than by region. All other
funds should continue to be allocated as in prior years and should
include mitigation hatcheries as needed to supplement reimburs-
able funds.
Aquatic Habitat and Species Conservation.—The recommendation
includes $116,034,000 for Aquatic Habitat and Species Conserva-
tion, $675,000 above the enacted level and $42,020,000 above the
budget request. A discussion of the program components follows.
Habitat Assessment and Restoration.—The recommendation in-
cludes $43,208,000, of which: $268,000 is for the Chehalis Fisheries
Restoration Program; $18,598,000 is for the National Fish Passage
Program; $2,450,000 is for the Klamath Basin Restoration Agree-
ment and the Committee expects the Service to maintain their
level of work on sage grouse related conservation in Klamath
Basin; $6,664,000 is for the National Fish Habitat Action Plan; and
$10,000,000 is to implement the Delaware River Basin Conserva-
tion Act. The Committee encourages the Service to continue to
work with partners to address their concerns about securing the
non-Federal matching dollars required for eligibility to receive
funding through the Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund. The
Service should explore solutions and convene partners to develop
approaches for addressing this concern and identify other sources
of funds that can be used as a match. Continued collaboration with
the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to acquire technical as-
sistance is also encouraged. The Service is directed to be trans-
parent with its partners regarding Federal costs for program co-
ordination and administration of the National Fish Habitat Action
Plan. The Service is encouraged to continue its collaborative work
with partners through the National Fish Passage Program on the
Warren Glen Dam removal project.
Population Assessment and Cooperative Management.—The rec-
ommendation provides $32,250,000, which maintains programs at
the enacted level including $890,000 to implement the Great Lakes
Consent Decree. The Service is directed to provide no less than
$1,000,000 to implement the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Res-
toration Act, which is supplemented with funding from the Great
Lakes Restoration Initiative. The recommendation does not accept
the proposed reductions for the Lake Champlain sea lamprey pro-
gram and the Pacific Salmon treaty and funds them at $818,000
and $150,000 respectively. The Committee remains supportive of
the annual Memorandum of Agreement with the Great Lakes Fish-
ery Commission to provide funding for sea lamprey treatment, as-
sessment, and program administration. The Service is to continue
its work with the State of Maryland, NOAA, and other partners on
eradication of invasive northern snakehead and use up to $250,000
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from within available funds for this effort.
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Aquatic Invasive Species.—The recommendation includes
$40,576,000, of which no less than $2,834,000 is to help States im-
plement plans required by the National Invasive Species Act
(NISA); $1,566,000 is for NISA coordination; $4,088,000 is to imple-
ment subsection 5(d)(2) of the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act;
$25,000,000 is for controlling Asian carp as outlined in the Explan-
atory Statement accompanying H.R. 1865, the Further Consoli-
dated Appropriations Act, 2020; $1,011,000 is for Sea Lamprey ad-
ministration costs; and $3,000,000 is to prevent the spread of
quagga and zebra mussels in the West.
Of the amount recommended for Asian carp control and preven-
tion, $3,000,000 is to expand and perfect the combined use of con-
tract fishing and deterrents to extirpate Asian carp, including grass
carp, where already established, pursuant to individual State laws
and regulations and as called for in management plans to prevent
a sustainable population from establishing in the Great Lakes.
Contract fishing has proven to be an extremely effective manage-
ment tool and it is not meant to develop a sustainable commercial
fishery. The Service shall continue to work with its State partners
to gather data to analyze the impacts of contract fishing to control
abundance and movement of Asian carp, including grass carp, and
to make sure adequate resources are provided to support the efforts
of the Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee.
The Service is encouraged to pursue technologies to aid in the
elimination, mitigation, or control of aquatic nuisance species and
invasive species that do not result in the addition of chemical
agents to the ecosystem that can lead to harmful by-products such
as algal blooms.
Cooperative Landscape Conservation.—The Committee rec-
ommendation rejects the Administration’s proposal to eliminate
funding for this program and includes $6,000,000, $6,500,000 below
the enacted level and $6,000,000 above the budget request.
The Committee supports forums that bring diverse partners to-
gether to focus on shared conservation goals and to leverage re-
sources to address climate change. This recommendation provides
funding to support collaborative conservation efforts such as
through Nature’s Network; the Southeast Conservation Adaptation
Strategy; the Midwest Landscape Initiative; the Californian Land-
scape Conservation Partnership; and the remaining or reconfigured
Landscape Conservation Cooperatives. The best available science
needs to be the foundation for Service decision making. Therefore,
in the absence of the requested Cooperative Landscape Conserva-
tion report, the recommendation redirects the balance of the fund-
ing historically appropriated for this program to other Service pro-
grams and the USGS Climate Adaptation Science Centers. This re-
direction ensures critical science is conducted and that partners are
engaged to help address and understand the continual assaults on
cultural and natural resources from climate change as well as
achieve shared conservation goals.
Science Support.—The recommendation does not approve the pro-
posed elimination of the program and includes $12,767,000 for the
Science Support program, $4,500,000 below the enacted level and
$12,767,000 above the budget request. This funding level maintains
the enacted level for ecosystem restoration of the Gulf Coast as
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well as includes $3,500,000 for research related to white-nose syn-
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drome in bats. The Service should continue to co-lead and imple-
ment the North American Bat Monitoring Program with other Fed-
eral, State, and non-governmental partners. The Service is also ex-
pected to partner with Cooperative Research Units whenever pos-
sible. Acknowledging the findings of the report from the Intergov-
ernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem
Services that 1,000,000 species are threatened with extinction, the
Service is encouraged to contract with the National Academy of
Sciences on the impacts of the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem
services on various sectors of society, including the private sector,
and recommend changes that can be instituted to conserve, restore
and sustainably use nature. The Service is also to consider inves-
tigating the impacts of climate change on outdoor recreational ac-
tivities at refuges, such as recreational boating, that affect refuge
use and visitation.
General Operations.—The recommendation includes $144,762,000
for General Operations programs, $2,795,000 above the enacted
level and $4,645,000 above the budget request. This funding level
provides $26,874,000 for Central Office Operations which does not
include the requested program increase of $1,406,000 but does in-
clude the transfer of $5,000,000 from Management and Administra-
tion to realign the funding from consolidating administrative func-
tions; $45,542,000 for Management and Administration, which re-
flects the $5,000,000 transfer to Central Office Operations but does
not include any of the other requested program increases;
$35,748,000 for Servicewide Bill Paying, which reflects the pro-
posed fixed costs reduction from the enacted level; $7,022,000 for
the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, the enacted level and
$2,022,000 above the budget request; $26,337,000, which reflects
the fixed costs increase above the enacted level for the National
Conservation Training Center, but does not accept the proposed re-
ductions and maintains $3,913,000 for Youth and Careers in Na-
ture, which includes tribal youth; and $3,239,000, which reflects
the fixed costs increase above the enacted level for Aviation Man-
agement. As discussed previously, the recommendation includes a
rescission of $1,000,000 from the fiscal year 2020 appropriation for
Central Office Operations because the Cooperative Landscape Con-
servation report directed by Congress was not received.
Congress acknowledges the importance of developing an elec-
tronic permitting system that will make the permitting process
more efficient for permit applicants and exporters whose business
depends on reliable and timely permitting and can also be used to
combat the illegal trafficking of products and wildlife. The Depart-
ment is directed to brief the Committee on the development of this
new system within 60 days of enactment of this Act.
Everglades.—The Everglades Headwaters National Wildlife Ref-
uge and Conservation Area was created to protect one of the last
remaining grassland and longleaf pine savanna landscapes in east-
ern North America while securing water resources for seven million
people in south Florida. The Committee continues its support for
collaborative efforts to protect, restore, and conserve habitats for
one of the greatest ecological treasures of the United States. The
recommendation provides a minimum of $15,238,000, the enacted
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level, across multiple programs for Everglades restoration.
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Bill language has been included which authorizes the Service to
accept transfers of funds from U.S. Customs and Border Protection
for mitigation activities, including land acquisition, related to con-
struction of border barriers on Federal lands.
CONSTRUCTION
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $29,704,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 13,292,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 18,338,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... ¥11,366,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +5,046,000
The Committee recommends $18,338,000 for Construction,
$11,366,000 below the enacted level and $5,046,000 above the re-
quest. Fixed costs are provided. The recommendation approves
$2,427,000 for dam and bridge safety consisting of a $695,000
transfer from line item construction and a $500,000 increase as re-
quested; $5,398,000 for line item construction; $5,000,000 for the
backlog of deferred maintenance principally at national fish hatch-
eries and national wildlife refuges; and $5,513,000 for nationwide
engineering services. For line item construction, the Service is ex-
pected to follow the project priority list in the table below.
When a construction project is completed or terminated and ap-
propriated funds remain, the Service may use those balances to re-
spond to unforeseen reconstruction, replacement, or repair of facili-
ties or equipment damaged or destroyed by storms, floods, fires,
and similar unanticipated natural events.
Committee
State Refuge, Hatchery, or Other Unit Budget Request Recommendation
TX Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge ............................................... $1,800,000 $1,800,000
SC Bears Bluff National Fish Hatchery ................................................... 1,000,000 1,000,000
WA Makah National Fish Hatchery ........................................................... 1,000,000 1,000,000
* Branch of Dam Safety ........................................................................ 250,000 250,000
* Branch of Dam Safety ........................................................................ 200,000 200,000
* Information Resources & Technology Management ........................... 250,000 250,000
WY Saratoga National Fish Hatchery ....................................................... 458,000 458,000
AK Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge ................................................ 380,000 380,000
AZ Williams Creek National Fish Hatchery .............................................. 60,000 60,000
LAND ACQUISITION
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $70,715,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 12,936,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 0
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +70,715,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ ¥12,936,000
As explained in the front matter under the heading ‘‘Land and
Water Conservation Fund,’’ the Committee has not recommended
discretionary funding for the Land Acquisition account. Rather,
funding will now come from the Fund as a result of the Great
American Outdoors Act.
As the Service contemplates acquisitions, it should consider that
sites, while not physically connected, often contain important eco-
logical and cultural value when connected as part of a regional
wildlife footprint. Future land acquisitions should also be
prioritized to serve the various migratory flyways through an inte-
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grated migratory and ecological footprint across the Service.
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COOPERATIVE ENDANGERED SPECIES CONSERVATION FUND
(INCLUDING RESCISSION OF FUNDS)
The Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund
(CESCF; Section 6 of the Endangered Species Act), administered by
the Service’s Ecological Services program, provides grant funding to
States and Territories for species and habitat conservation actions
on non-Federal lands, including habitat acquisition, conservation
planning, habitat restoration, status surveys, captive propagation
and reintroduction, research, and education.
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $54,502,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 0
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 23,702,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... ¥30,800,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +23,702,000
The Committee recommends $23,702,000 for the Cooperative En-
dangered Species Conservation Fund, $30,800,000 below the en-
acted level and $23,702,000 above the budget request due to antici-
pated funding for the Great American Outdoors Act. A detailed
table of funding recommendations below the account level is pro-
vided at the end of this report. The recommendation includes a re-
scission of $11,000,000, $3,000,000 above the rescission proposed in
the budget, to be derived from unobligated balances of appropria-
tions made prior to fiscal year 2016.
NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE FUND
The National Wildlife Refuge Fund shares refuge revenues and
makes payments in lieu of taxes to counties in which Service lands
are located.
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $13,228,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 0
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 13,228,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... 0
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +13,228,000
The Committee recommends $13,228,000 for the National Wild-
life Refuge Fund, the enacted level and $13,228,000 above the
budget request.
NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION FUND
The North American Wetlands Conservation Act of 1989
(NAWCA) provided for matching grants to support projects that
protect, enhance, and restore habitat for wetland-dependent birds
and other wildlife in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Addi-
tional program funding comes from fines, penalties, and forfeitures
collected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918; from Fed-
eral fuel excise taxes on small gasoline engines, as directed by
amendments to the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act of
1950, to benefit coastal ecosystem projects; and from interest ac-
crued on the fund established under the Federal Aid in Wildlife
Restoration Act of 1937. Through fiscal year 2019, the Service has
helped NAWCA partners conserve 31 million acres. Authorization
of appropriations in Public Law 109–322 expired in fiscal year
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2012.
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Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $46,000,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 40,000,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 46,500,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +500,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +6,500,000
The Committee recommends $46,500,000 for the North American
Wetlands Conservation Fund, $500,000 above the enacted level and
$6,500,000 above the budget request.
NEOTROPICAL MIGRATORY BIRD CONSERVATION
The Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act program pro-
vides matching grants to partners throughout the Western Hemi-
sphere to promote the conservation of neotropical migratory birds
in the United States, Canada, Latin America, and the Caribbean,
with not less than 75 percent of the amounts available to be ex-
pended on projects in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Canada.
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $4,910,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 3,900,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 4,910,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... 0
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +1,010,000
The Committee recommends $4,910,000 for neotropical migratory
bird conservation, the enacted level and $1,010,000 above the budg-
et request.
MULTINATIONAL SPECIES CONSERVATION FUND
The Multinational Species Conservation Fund provides critical
technical and financial assistance to local communities, wildlife au-
thorities, and non-governmental organizations in foreign countries
for on-the-ground conservation work to protect African and Asian
elephants, rhinoceroses, tigers, great apes, and marine turtles, and
their habitats. Matching grants are provided to countries to estab-
lish protected areas; monitor wildlife populations; combat wildlife
trafficking; reduce consumer demand for illegal wildlife products;
and provide vital infrastructure, training, and equipment to man-
age protected areas and wildlife populations.
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $15,000,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 6,000,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 19,000,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +4,000,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +13,000,000
The Committee recommends $19,000,000 for the Multinational
Species Conservation Fund to protect these priority species,
$4,000,000 above the enacted level and $13,000,000 above the
budget request. The Committee is aware of how the coronavirus is
devastating ecotourism, impacting the enforcement of wildlife traf-
ficking prohibitions and the ability to protect wildlife, and supports
aiding key wildlife populations. A detailed table of funding rec-
ommendations below the account level is provided at the end of
this report.
The Committee is concerned about the timely disbursement and
obligation of these grants and directs the Service to provide a brief-
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ing within 60 days after enactment of this Act on the award of
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32
these grants from fiscal year 2018 to the current fiscal year. This
briefing is to include information on the timeline for the grant re-
view process, the date of issuance of the Notice of Funding Avail-
ability to the date of disbursement to the recipient; the obligation
rates associated with these grants; and any new safeguards that
have been instituted to prevent the misuse of these funds. The
Committee reminds the Service and the Department that the Im-
poundment Control Act of 1974 is prescriptive as to when the Exec-
utive Branch may preclude or delay the expenditure of budget au-
thority, and only allows such action in three very narrow cir-
cumstances.
STATE AND TRIBAL WILDLIFE GRANTS
The State and Tribal Wildlife Grants Program provides grants to
States and federally recognized Tribes, the District of Columbia,
Commonwealths, and Territories to conserve fish and wildlife and
their habitats, including species that are not hunted or fished.
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $67,571,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 31,286,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 78,321,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +10,750,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +47,035,000
The Committee recommends $78,321,000 for State and Tribal
Wildlife Grants, $10,750,000 above the enacted level and
$47,035,000 above the budget request. The recommendation ac-
knowledges the important role States, Commonwealths, Territories,
the District of Columbia, and Tribes play in seeking public input
to produce comprehensive fish and wildlife conservation strategies
that guide the management and conservation of species before they
decline to levels that require listing.
A detailed table of funding recommendations below the account
level is provided at the end of this report. The Committee does not
support the budget request of directing competitive grants solely
toward funding big game research and conservation in the 11 west-
ern State-identified priority corridors. State Wildlife competitive
grants must be available nationwide.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
The recommendation continues various administrative provisions
from fiscal year 2019.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
The mission of the National Park Service (Service) is to preserve
unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the
national park system for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration
of this and future generations. Established in 1916, the National
Park Service has stewardship responsibilities for the protection and
preservation of the heritage resources of the national park system.
The system, consisting of 419 separate and distinct units, is recog-
nized globally as a leader in park management and resource pres-
ervation. The national park system represents much of the finest
the Nation has to offer in terms of natural beauty and wildlife, his-
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torical and archeological relics, and cultural heritage. Through its
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33
varied sites, the National Park Service attempts to explain Amer-
ica’s history, interpret its culture, preserve examples of its natural
ecosystems, and provide recreational and educational opportunities
for U.S. citizens and visitors from all over the world. In addition,
the National Park Service provides support to Tribal, local, and
State governments to preserve culturally significant, ecologically
important, and public recreational lands.
OPERATION OF THE NATIONAL PARK SYSTEM
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $2,576,992,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 2,516,690,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 2,776,642,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +199,650,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +259,952,000
The Committee recommends $2,776,642,000 for Operation of the
National Park System (ONPS), $199,650,000 above the enacted
level and $259,952,000 above the budget request. The amounts rec-
ommended by the Committee compared with the budget estimates
by activity are shown in the table at the end of this report. All pro-
grams, projects, and activities are maintained at the enacted level,
unless otherwise specified below.
The fiscal year 2020 bill directed the Service to provide alter-
natives to restructure the ONPS appropriation not later than 90
days following enactment of that Act and to brief the Committees
on the prior fiscal year’s spending realignment within 60 days of
the end of the fiscal year. To date, the Service has not satisfied ei-
ther directive.
The Service is directed to fulfill these directives within 30 days
of enactment of this Act.
For the last several years, this Committee has focused on ad-
dressing the maintenance backlog issues across the National Park
System. The Committee, therefore, applauds the impending enact-
ment of the Great American Outdoors Act, which will significantly
alleviate the strain on the National Park System caused by its $11
billion maintenance backlog by providing more than a billion dol-
lars annually.
To complement this progress, and to position the Service to be
able to successfully utilize the new funding infusion, the Com-
mittee prioritizes investments in the capacity of our national parks
in order to rebuild insufficient staffing levels, which have declined
by roughly 3,000 positions since 2010. The Committee recommends
a $121,000,000 increase for the Service to begin rebuilding its
workforce so that it can conserve and manage our natural and cul-
tural resources to ensure an enriching national park experience for
the public. These increases support the restoration of 1,200 posi-
tions in the parks and are distributed proportionally across Re-
source Stewardship, Visitor Services, and Visitor Protection within
the ONPS account. Re-building this capacity is critical as parks de-
velop and implement deferred maintenance projects and acquire
new lands under the Great American Outdoors Act.
Additional funding guidance is provided below.
Resource Stewardship.—The Committee recommends
$366,674,000 for resource stewardship. The recommendation in-
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cludes $3,925,000 for the Partnership Wild & Scenic Rivers pro-
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34
gram, $3,000,000 for Quagga and Zebra Mussel Programs, and
$800,000 for Cave and Karst Ecosystem Research. The rec-
ommendation includes a program increase of $800,000 for the Na-
tional Trails System. Additionally, the recommendation provides
$1,500,000 for the national networks, which include the National
Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, the African American
Civil Rights Network, the Reconstruction Era National Historic
Network, and the World War II Heritage Cities Network.
Everglades Restoration.—The Committee recommends
$10,282,000 for the Everglades Restoration Program. The Com-
mittee notes the substantial progress made toward restoration of
the Everglades ecosystem and continues to support this multi-year
effort to preserve one of the great ecological treasures of the United
States.
Visitor Services.—The Committee recommends $287,684,000 for
Visitor Services. The recommendation includes funding to support
the 2021 Presidential Inauguration, as requested, and provides
$500,000 for the Indian Youth Service Corps program. The Na-
tional Capital Area Performing Arts Program is funded at no less
than the enacted level.
Park Protection.—The Committee recommends $408,711,000 for
Park Protection. The recommendation includes the requested fund-
ing for the Southern Arizona Office and to support the 2021 Presi-
dential Inauguration. Base funding for Washington D.C. Metropoli-
tan Area U.S. Park Police Operations is reduced by $5,000,000.
The Department and Service have failed to provide the Com-
mittee with the information requested in the June 3, 2020 letter
to Secretary Bernhardt and Acting Chief Monahan regarding the
use of aggressive action against peaceful protesters in Lafayette
Park on June 1, 2020. The Service is directed to provide this infor-
mation within 10 days of enactment of this Act. Accompanying bill
language reduces USPP funding by $50,000 for each day that this
directive is not fulfilled.
Facility Operations and Maintenance.—The Committee rec-
ommends $945,481,000 for Facilities Operations and Maintenance.
The recommendation accepts the proposed reduction for DC Water
and Sewer.
Park Support.—The Committee recommends $572,129,000 for
Park Support. The recommendation provides $1,000,000 for NPS
App Development to expand public access to Federal recreational
opportunities by developing a servicewide mobile app. The re-
quested funding to monitor projects funded through the Urban
Park and Recreational Recovery program is also provided. The re-
quested reductions for the Departmentwide Reorganization Plan
and the shift of ethics functions have been accepted.
Commissions.—The recommendation includes $3,300,000 for the
400 Years of African-American History Commission to be spent in
accordance with the 400 Years of African-American History Com-
mission Act and $3,300,000 for the Semiquincentennial Commis-
sion to be spent in accordance with the Semiquincentennial Com-
mission Act of 2016.
Fixed Costs.—The recommendation provides $34,759,000 for fixed
costs, as requested.
Global Positioning System Modernization.—Within the funds pro-
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vided, $4,000,000 is for the replacement of Global Positioning Sys-
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35
tem (GPS) data collection devices used by the Service for facilities
planning, lands administration, visitor safety, and infrastructure
protection. The Committee is aware that approximately 25 percent
of the Service’s field data collection devices use an operating sys-
tem that are no longer supported by the manufacturer and, there-
fore, the devices are not able to comply with the Department’s In-
formation Technology security requirements. The funds provided
will allow the Service to bring field data collection devices into com-
pliance.
National Park Foundation.—The recommendation includes
$5,000,000 for the National Park Foundation, equal to the enacted
level.
New Responsibilities at New and Existing Park Areas.—The rec-
ommendation provides $7,063,000 for New Responsibilities at New
and Existing Park Areas, as requested.
Additional Guidance.—The following additional direction and
guidance is provided with respect to funding provided within this
account:
Air Tour Management.— The Committee shares the U.S. Court
of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit’s opinion of the Fed-
eral Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Service’s
underwhelming and unsuccessful effort to implement the Air Tour
Management Act of 2000. The Committee directs the Service to
submit not later than 15 days after the date of enactment of this
Act to the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations a
court-approved plan for bringing 23 national parks into compliance
with such Act and the subsequent court-required updates as of the
date of enactment of this Act.
America’s First Frontier.—The Committee urges the Service to
advance interpretive efforts at existing Service sites and in collabo-
ration with other Federal, State, and local agencies, including other
bureaus within the Department of the Interior, to detail the start
of westward expansion through the Northwest Territory as Amer-
icas First Frontier.
Blackstone Valley National Heritage Corridor.—The Committee
continues the fiscal year 2020 enacted directive regarding coopera-
tive agreements with the local coordinating entity for the Black-
stone Valley National Heritage Corridor.
Diversity Reporting Requirements for Special Use Permits.—The
Service is directed to explore the feasibility of adding diversity re-
porting requirements to special use permits for commercial filming
projects on Service lands.
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.—The significant threat
that quagga mussel infestations pose to the health of the Colorado
River ecosystem and its tributaries is concerning. There is a need
for adequate monitoring of recreational boating activities carried
out subsequent to leaving the National Recreation Area. The Serv-
ice is encouraged to consider a pilot program at Glen Canyon Na-
tional Recreation Area to assist in better monitoring and cleaning
of recreational boating.
Hetch Hetchy Reservoir.—The Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, which is
located in Yosemite National Park, is the drinking water source for
2.7 million Americans. Since the reservoir’s creation in 1923, boat-
ing has been prohibited to prevent the introduction of contami-
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nants, and to date the quality of the water from Hetch Hetchy Res-
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36
ervoir is such that it does not require filtration. The Service is di-
rected to maintain this longstanding prohibition.
Human Trafficking.—The Committee notes concern raised about
reports of human trafficking in our nation’s national parks. The
Committee urges the Service to provide training to staff to identify
signs of trafficking and how to combat it.
Master Lease within National Capital Region.—The Committee
notes that the Service is proceeding with a plan to lease three golf
courses located within the National Capital Region and expresses
its support for a selection process that is conducted in a fair, open
and transparent manner and that gives strong consideration to pro-
posals that (1) demonstrate a strong commitment to ongoing col-
laboration with the Service; (2) demonstrate a commitment to
working to perpetuate the legacy of innovative design on the
courses, consistent with National Environmental Policy Act re-
quirements; (3) maximize economic, educational, and social impact
on local communities and increase visitation and outdoor recreation
within the nation’s capital; and (4) are submitted by organizations
with a proven record of success working collaboratively with public
and private sector institutions, including federal and local govern-
ment entities.
Outreach.—The Committee recognizes that the Service has taken
steps to increase outreach, make parks more accessible, and in-
crease recruitment within minority schools and communities. The
Committee directs the Service to continue with these efforts and to
develop partnerships and programs with Hispanic Serving Institu-
tions, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and other Mi-
nority Serving Intuitions that contribute to the mission of the Na-
tional Park Service. The Service is directed to complete and submit
to the Committee on Appropriations the study required by House
Report 116–100 within 60 days of enactment of the Act.
Partnership Wild and Scenic Rivers.—The Committee recognizes
the effectiveness of the Partnership Wild & Scenic Rivers Program
in fulfilling its core mission to preserve resources, provide for vis-
itor enjoyment and protection, operate and maintain facilities, and
manage and administer the national parks. The Committee encour-
ages the NPS to study the feasibility of including sites undergoing
restoration for possible inclusion in the Wild & Scenic Rivers Pro-
gram, so that nearly-restored sites may be considered before res-
toration is complete.
Pearl Harbor National Memorial.—The Service is directed to ex-
plore the feasibility of a pilot program, consistent with the John D.
Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act, that
would work with stakeholders, including the Department of De-
fense, and establish public-private partnerships to enhance the
overall visitor experience at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.
The Service is directed to report its findings to the Committee on
Appropriations within one year of enactment of the Act.
Plastic Waste Reduction.—On August 16, 2017, the Service an-
nounced its repeal of the policy entitled, ‘‘Recycling and Reduction
of Disposable Plastic Bottles in Parks’’. This policy allowed parks
to voluntarily establish disposable plastic water bottle sales elimi-
nation programs that aimed to reduce the disposal of plastic water
bottles in national parks. Since the repeal, there have been no al-
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ternative approaches to mitigating or preventing plastic pollution.
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Within 180 days of enactment of this Act, the Service is directed
to develop and submit to the Committee a plan to mitigate or pre-
vent plastic pollution in the National Park System. The plan
should include an evaluation of the potential role of refillable water
stations and recyclable packaging.
Reimbursement to DC Government.—During the 35-day federal
government shutdown that began on December 22, 2018, the Dis-
trict of Columbia expended more than $78,000 to provide trash re-
moval on Service property. The Service is directed to expeditiously
reimburse the District of Columbia for those expenses.
World War II Interpretation.—The Committee recognizes the im-
portance of the interpretive story at the World War II Memorial as
a national focal point for a message of perseverance and hope at
a defining moment in American history. The Service is encouraged
to include innovative storytelling at the memorial, which incor-
porates video and collections with related WWII sites. Additionally,
within 60 days of enactment of this Act, the Service is directed to
update the Committee on the status of its plans to address this
hairline fracture in the Atlantic side of the memorial, including a
timeline for its repair.
NATIONAL RECREATION AND PRESERVATION
The National Recreation and Preservation account provides for
outdoor recreation planning, preservation of cultural and national
heritage resources, technical assistance to Federal, State and local
agencies, and administration of Historic Preservation Fund grants.
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $71,166,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 33,924,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 74,292,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +3,126,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +40,368,000
The Committee recommends $74,292,000 for national recreation
and preservation, $3,126,000 above the enacted level and
$40,368,000 above the budget request. The amounts recommended
by the Committee compared with the budget estimates by activity
are shown in the table at the end of this report. Fixed costs are
provided, otherwise, all programs, projects, and activities are main-
tained at fiscal year 2020 levels, unless otherwise specified below.
Chesapeake Bay Gateways and Trails.— The Committee rec-
ommends $3,000,000 for Chesapeake Bay Gateways and Trails.
The Committee notes that efforts to enact a long-term reauthoriza-
tion of this program continue and expects that the Service will con-
tinue to implement the program at the funding level appropriated
by Congress in the meantime, pursuant to a recent opinion by the
Service’s comptroller and consistent with the U.S. Government Ac-
countability Office’s principles of Federal appropriations law.
Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Grants.—
The Committee recommends $1,907,000 for Native American
Graves Protection and Repatriation Grants.
Japanese Confinement Site Grants.—The Committee recommends
$3,155,000 for Japanese Confinement Site Grants.
American Indian and Native Hawaiian Art and Culture
Grants.—The Committee recommends $1,250,000 for American In-
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dian and Native Hawaiian Art and Culture Grants.
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9/11 Memorial Act Grants.—The Committee recommends
$2,500,000 for the competitive grant program, as authorized by the
9/11 Memorial Act (Public Law 115–413).
Heritage Partnership Programs.—The Committee recommends
$24,024,000 for Heritage Partnership Programs, an increase of
$2,080,000 above the enacted level. The bill includes language
waiving cost-share requirements for fiscal year 2021.
Additional Guidance.—The following additional direction and
guidance is provided with respect to funding provided within this
account:
Chief Standing Bear Trail.—The Committee recognizes the im-
portance of Chief Standing Bear as one of America’s earliest civil
rights leaders. The Committee supports work being done at the
state and local level to establish a multi-state trail commemorating
his accomplishments and urges the Secretary of the Interior to as-
sist in these efforts.
Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District.—The
Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District has prov-
en to be a unique public-private partnership model for the protec-
tion and preservation of this nationally significant site. The Com-
mittee encourages the Service to work with the District to ensure
that authorities provided under the District’s enabling legislation
are fully utilized to maximize the effectiveness of this partnership.
Additionally, the Service is encouraged to work with Congress to
consider reclassifying it as a National Battlefield Site. The Com-
mittee also directs the Service to convene the Cedar Creek and
Belle Grove National Historical Park Advisory Commission to con-
sider opportunities to maximize the visitor experience across all
elements of the battlefield.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION FUND
The Historic Preservation Fund supports the State historic pres-
ervation offices to perform a variety of functions. These include
State management and administration of existing grant obliga-
tions; review and advice on Federal projects and actions; deter-
minations and nominations to the National Register; Tax Act cer-
tifications; and technical preservation services. The States also re-
view properties to develop data for planning use. Funding in this
account also supports direct grants to qualifying organizations for
individual preservation projects and for activities in support of her-
itage tourism and local historic preservation.
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $118,660,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 40,672,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 136,425,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +17,765,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +95,753,000
The Committee recommends $136,425,000 for historic preserva-
tion, $17,765,000 above the enacted level and $95,753,000 above
the budget request.
Historic Preservation Offices.—The bill provides $55,675,000 for
State Historic Preservation Offices and $15,000,000 for Tribal His-
toric Preservation Offices. The Committee is acutely aware of the
critical role these entities play in supporting construction projects
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by conducting Section 106 reviews and that the COVID–19 pan-
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39
demic has had a devastating impact. Increases are provided to help
mitigate those impacts.
Competitive Grants.—The Committee rejects the proposed elimi-
nation of the competitive grants program and recommends
$23,250,000, an increase of $4,500,000 above the enacted level.
Competitive grants to document, interpret, and preserve historical
sites associated with the Civil Rights Movement are funded at
$18,000,000, an increase of $2,500,000 above the enacted level. The
Committee provides $4,250,000 for the newly established civil
rights grant program that preserves and highlights the sites and
stories associated with securing civil rights for All Americans, in-
cluding women, American Latino, Native American, Asian Amer-
ican, Pacific Islander, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, and
LGBTQ Americans. The recommendation also includes $1,000,000
for grants to underserved communities.
Save America’s Treasures Grants.—The Committee rejects the
proposed elimination of the Save America’s Treasures Grant pro-
gram and recommends $25,000,000, an increase of $9,000,000
above the enacted level. The Save America’s Treasures competitive
grant program preserves our nation’s most significant historic and
cultural resources. The demand for this program eclipses the funds
available. The Committee encourages the Service to ensure that ar-
chaeological collections representing indigenous cultures and re-
mote regions of the country are considered for the grants as they
may be nationally significant by providing a richer portrait of the
nation’s past.
Grants to Historically Black Colleges and Universities.—The
Committee provides $10,000,000 for the Historically Black Colleges
and Universities grant program. The Committee notes that the
John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation
Act (Public Law 116–9) reauthorized the Historically Black Col-
leges and Universities Historic Preservation Fund Program
through fiscal year 2025. The recommendation funds the program
at the fully authorized amount.
Additional Guidance.—The following guidance is provided with
respect to funding provided within this account:
Hispanic Heritage Sites.—The Committee is concerned that
across the United States, many sites that are historically connected
to Hispanic contributions to American society and culture have not
been given proper recognition, which affects how Americans see
Hispanics in U.S. history. While the Service has taken steps to im-
prove Hispanic representation in heritage sites, the Committee be-
lieves there is more work to be done and directs the Service to com-
plete and submit to the Committee on Appropriations the study re-
quired by House Report 116–100 within 60 days of enactment of
the Act.
CONSTRUCTION
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $389,345,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 192,649,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 223,907,000
Comparison:
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Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... ¥165,438,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +31,258,000
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The Committee recommends $223,907,000 for Construction,
$165,438,000 below the enacted level and $31,258,000 above the
budget request.
Line-Item Construction.—The bill includes $131,788,000 for line-
item construction priorities included in the budget request. The
recommendation does not include funds to rehabilitate the Fort
Vancouver National Historic Site to serve as a new regional office
location and no funds are provided to relocate the Park Service’s
Pacific West Regional Office (Regions 8, 9, 10, and 12) from its cur-
rent location in the San Francisco Bay Area, California. With the
extension of the lease through August 2023, the Park Service
should utilize this time to locate a permanent location for the re-
gional headquarters office and coordinate this plan with stake-
holders and the Congress. Furthermore, the Service shall instead
brief the Committee within 60 days of enactment of this Act re-
garding an alternative plan for the long-term utilization of the site.
The Committee directs that, within 30 days of the submission of
the fiscal year 2022 budget or by March 1, 2021, whichever comes
first, the Service shall to submit to the Committee a prioritized list
of projects and the corresponding project data sheets totaling 125%
of the amount appropriated in the prior enacted fiscal year, with
no less than one-third of the projects allocated to deferred mainte-
nance.
The following table details the line item construction activity for
specific projects requested or provided by the administration.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE CONSTRUCTION
Committee Rec-
State Project Budget Request ommendation
HI Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Replace Failing Shoreside Dock at
Visitor Center ................................................................................. $5,647,000 $5,647,000
MD Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Repair Canal
Inlet Lock 1 and Lift Locks 1,2 and 5 .......................................... 11,062,000 11,062,000
MT Glacier National Park, Replace Utilities Along Lake McDonald ........ 16,874,000 16,874,000
TN Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Rehabilitate Sugarlands
Water and Wastewater Systems .................................................... 8,614,000 8,614,000
DC National Mall and Memorial Parks, Rehabilitate Elevator and In-
stall Walkways at Thomas Jefferson Memorial ............................. 4,500,000 4,500,000
DE First State National Historical Park, Rehabilitate Historic Sheriff’s
House in New Castle ..................................................................... 7,871,000 7,871,000
CO Rocky Mountain National Park, Replace Undersized Entrance Sta-
tion at Fall River Entrance ............................................................ 5,728,000 5,728,000
HI Kalaupapa National Historical Park, Rehabilitate Unsafe and Fail-
ing Electrical System for Settlement ............................................. 16,030,000 16,030,000
NJ Gateway National Recreation Area, Replace Officers Row Seawall
at Sandy Hook ................................................................................ 15,816,000 15,816,000
DC President’s Park, Repair Ornamental Fountains at Lafayette Park
and White House Grounds ............................................................. 5,774,000 5,774,000
CA Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Rehabilitate Unsafe and In-
adequate Primary Electrical System at Fort Mason ...................... 19,406,000 19,406,000
AK Wrangell-Saint Elias National Park & Preserve, Replace Deficient
VC/HQ Water Treatment System .................................................... 4,277,000 4,277,000
WA North Cascades National Park, Expand Utility Infrastructure for
Stehekin Wildland Fire Facility and Dorm ..................................... 6,189,000 6,189,000
Total .................................................................................................... 127,788,000 127,788,000
National Parks Fire Recovery.—In an effort to ensure that parks
around the country continue to provide for safe and uninterrupted
visitor use of facilities, within funding for Special Programs, the
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Committee encourages the National Park Service to provide funds
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41
for emergency and unscheduled projects at sites around the country
impacted by fires in 2019, such as Big Bend National Park.
Ozark National Scenic Riverways.—The Committee understands
that the Ozark National Scenic Riverways (ONSR) has a signifi-
cant amount of maintenance backlog to complete as a result of
damage from flooding in 2017 as well as several restoration and re-
placement projects for features at popular sites located within the
park. The Committee recognizes the economic impact the ONSR
has on the surrounding communities and the importance of reopen-
ing these features in a timely manner. As such, the National Park
Service is directed to make every effort practical to move forward
with these projects so that the ONSR is fully open to the local com-
munities as well as tourists.
World Heritage Sites.—The Committee urges the Service to
prioritize funding for the backlog of maintenance and preservation
projects including National Park System units designated as World
Heritage Sites. The Service has not fulfilled the reporting directive
contained in House Report 116–100 and is directed to submit such
a report to the Committee within 60 days of enactment of the Act.
LAND ACQUISITION AND STATE ASSISTANCE
(INCLUDING RESCISSION OF FUNDS)
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $208,400,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 17,626,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 0
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... ¥208,400,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ ¥17,626,000
As explained in the front matter under the heading ‘‘Land and
Water Conservation Fund,’’ the Committee has not recommended
discretionary funding for the Land Acquisition and State Assist-
ance account. Rather, funding will now come from the Fund as a
result of the Great American Outdoors Act. The recommendation
does include a rescission of $2,000,000 of prior year unobligated
balances.
Outdoor Recreation.—The Committee encourages the National
Park Service to prioritize funding under State and Local Assistance
Programs to support establishment of greenways, parks, trails and
other outdoor recreation facilities in honor of America’s veterans.
Veterans memorial greenways and trails that protect or improve
native habitat, water quality, and are linked to a designated Wild
and Scenic River, National Recreation Area, or the Mississippi
River system would be good candidates for additional priority.
CENTENNIAL CHALLENGE
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $15,000,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 0
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 15,000,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... 0
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +15,000,000
The Committee recommends $15,000,000 for the Centennial
Challenge matching grant program, equal to the enacted level and
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$15,000,000 above the budget request.
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UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY
Originating in 1879, the United States Geological Survey (USGS
or Survey), is the Nation’s largest water, earth, and biological
science and civilian mapping agency. As the sole science agency for
the Department of the Interior, the Survey provides reliable sci-
entific information to describe and understand the Earth; monitor
and protect public safety, health, and American economic pros-
perity, and improve resilience to natural hazards; informs steward-
ship of energy and mineral resources; helps sustain healthy fish
and wildlife populations; improves water resource decision making;
investigates wildlife diseases; and provides accurate, high-resolu-
tion geospatial data. The Survey works in partnership within Inte-
rior and across the government as well as with States, Tribes, and
academia. The diversity of Survey scientific expertise enables the
Survey to provide the best available science and scientific informa-
tion to resource managers and planners, emergency response offi-
cials, and the public.
SURVEYS, INVESTIGATIONS, AND RESEARCH
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $1,270,957,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 971,185,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 1,292,987,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +22,030,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +321,802,000
The Committee recommends $1,292,987,000 for Surveys, Inves-
tigations, and Research, $22,030,000 above the enacted level and
$321,802,000 above the budget request. The budget request in-
cluded a proposed budget restructure that the recommendation ap-
proves in a modified form to provide more detail and ensure pro-
gram and funding transparency. Fixed costs are provided but re-
quested program changes are not provided unless specifically ad-
dressed below. Recommended program changes, instructions, and
details follow below and in the table at the end of this report.
The Survey provides critical scientific research and data to land
and water managers in priority ecosystems including the California
Bay Delta, the Everglades, the Chesapeake Bay and the Great
Lakes. This work is funded through multiple mission areas and ac-
counts, and the Committee expects this work to continue at no less
than fiscal year 2020 enacted level, unless otherwise directed.
Ecosystems.—The recommendation modifies and expands upon
the proposed budget restructure by including Environmental
Health and Land Change Science and provides $261,257,000,
$90,713,000 above the enacted level and $133,920,000 above the
budget request. The increase above the enacted level includes the
fiscal year 2020 funding of $23,495,000 for Environmental Health
in the Energy and Minerals Mission Area and $59,409,000 for Na-
tional and Regional Climate Adaptation Science Centers and com-
ponents of Land Change Science funded in the Land Resources
Mission Area.
Environmental Health.—The recommendation does not approve
the proposed elimination of the Environmental Health program
and includes $23,495,000, the enacted level. Funding is maintained
at the enacted level for Contaminant Biology at $10,397,000 and
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for Toxic Substances Hydrology at $13,098,000. The Committee
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43
does not accept the proposed reduction of more than $1,000,000 for
harmful algal bloom research and directs no less than $2,000,000
be allocated for this research. The Survey is to continue its re-
search on understanding the prevalence of toxins in the nation’s
natural bodies of water by expanding its understanding of
cyanobacteria and toxins in stream and wetland ecosystems and
the associated health impacts, especially through drinking water.
The Survey is directed to examine pathways through which sedi-
ment and nutrients move that result in the formation of harmful
algal blooms and to remain an active participant in the Harmful
Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Act Interagency
Working Group to expedite the development and deployment of re-
mote sensing tools to assist with early event warning delivered
through mobile devices and web portals. The Committee also di-
rects the Survey to maintain its monitoring and research activities
in the Tahoe basin on nearshore algal blooms and to support imple-
mentation of P.L. 106–506. Within 60 days of enactment of this
Act, the Survey is to provide a report to the Committee on the En-
vironmental Health research it plans to conduct in fiscal year 2021.
Species Management Research Program.—For Species Manage-
ment Research, the recommendation does not approve any of the
proposed reductions and provides $54,729,000, $14,736,000 above
the request. Funding for the Great Lakes Science Center is pro-
vided at no less than $13,000,000. The Committee supports the
Great Lakes Science Center’s collaboration with the broader Great
Lakes Partnership to implement priority science needs for biologi-
cal assessment tools and technologies. House Report 116–9 re-
quested a report on significant gaps that exist in understanding
and enhancing the Great Lakes ecosystem and the funding needed
to provide the scientific information required by resource man-
agers. The Committee understands the Survey worked with State,
Federal, Tribal and other partners, including the Great Lakes Fish-
eries Commission, to gather information on data gaps in under-
standing and enhancing the Great Lakes ecosystem and directs
this report be expedited through the clearance process and pro-
vided to the Committee no later than 30 days after enactment of
this Act. Accompanying this report, the Committee is to be briefed
on whether a study by the National Academy of Sciences is needed
to supplement the Survey report to identify research and infra-
structure needs and make recommendations for federal invest-
ments.
Land Management Research Program.—For the Land Manage-
ment Research Program, the recommendation does not approve any
of the proposed reductions and provides $57,408,000, $19,471,000
above the request. The Survey is directed to fund all priority geo-
graphic landscapes and ecosystems, such as the Everglades and
Chesapeake Bay, at no less than the enacted level. The Committee
urges the Survey to continue its work on native plant research and
identify opportunities for the Department to increase the use of na-
tive plants in land restoration projects as well as the native plant
species that could be most successful for restoration and promote
improved ecosystem function. The recommendation maintains the
enacted level of funding for sage grouse research and urges the sur-
vey to ensure there is current population estimates and modeling
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to make an informed decision about the status and viability of the
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44
species. The Survey is encouraged to study the hydrology of saline
lakes in the Great Basin, specifically the relationship between mi-
gratory birds and wildlife, and submit a proposal for funding this
research in the fiscal year 2022 budget.
Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program.—The
recommendation renames the proposed Biological Threats Research
Program to the Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research
Program to provide more clarity about the research funded in this
program. The recommendation provides $37,666,000, $9,125,000
above the request. This funding level provides $10,620,000 to con-
tinue critical research for Asian Carp, including $3,000,000 for re-
search to contain or eradicate grass carp such as the Survey’s on-
going work to develop species-specific toxicants for grass carp. The
recommendation provides $2,720,000, $1,000,000 above the enacted
level, for research on chronic wasting disease in wild populations
of cervids. The Survey should continue to collaborate with partners,
including institutions of higher education that have expertise in bi-
ology, ecology, and epidemiology of prion diseases, to develop early
detection tools and compounds to disrupt transmission of the dis-
ease. Funding for research on Coral Disease, White Nose Syn-
drome, and Greater Everglades Invasive species is maintained at
the enacted level. The Survey is encouraged to continue to inform
monitoring and management efforts for the Emerald Ash Borer.
Climate Adaptation Science Centers and Land Change Science.—
The Committee provides $62,959,000 for Climate Adaptation and
Land Change Science, $42,093,000 above the request. The Com-
mittee does not accept the proposed funding reduction and realign-
ment of the Climate Adaptation Science Centers (CASCs) and pro-
vides $41,335,000, $3,000,000 above the enacted level to ensure all
centers remain open, operational, and fully functional. In fiscal
year 2020, Congress demonstrated support to continue and advance
the operation of the national and all nine regional climate adapta-
tion science centers, including standing up the Midwest Climate
Adaptation Science Center. The recommendation provides for no
less than $4,000,000 to support the development of the Midwest
Climate Adaptation Science Center, which the Committee expects
to be established through a competitive process and hosted in a
Midwestern state. The Committee requests an update from the
Survey on the status of the Midwest Climate Adaptation Science
Center within 90 days of enactment of this Act.
CASCs provide actionable science and research that directly ad-
dress many of the climate-related challenges unique to different re-
gions of the country and are invaluable to stakeholders and policy
makers. The Committee believes the Administration’s attempt to
reduce and curtail the activities of these centers is shortsighted
and counterproductive at a time when our natural and cultural re-
sources, our communities, and our health are being assaulted by
climate change. The Committee remains concerned that funding for
these regional centers and approval of the staffing plan continues
to face unnecessary delays. The Survey is directed to expeditiously
fill all staffing vacancies in fiscal year 2021 and to prioritize and
expedite the distribution of funds to regional centers, including uni-
versity consortia, to ensure timely obligations. The recommendation
maintains funding for Tribal Climate Adaptation Science at the en-
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acted level and provides $21,624,000 for land change science.
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45
Cooperative Research Units (CRUs).—The Committee recognizes
the value of Cooperative Research Units and rejects the proposed
elimination of the program. The recommendation includes
$25,000,000, $1,000,000 above the enacted level, to support these
research institutions and maintain the educational pipeline, includ-
ing improving and increasing youth involvement in science and re-
source management. The recommendation continues the fiscal year
2020 directive to fill critical vacancies, specifically vacancies needed
to build quantitative fisheries capacity in inland waters of the
Upper Mississippi Basin. The Survey is to use $700,000 from with-
in available funds to establish a CRU with a programmatic focus
on water scarcity with an institution of higher education that does
not currently have a CRU. CRUs are expected to coordinate new
research projects with the United.
Energy and Mineral Resources.—The Committee agrees to the
proposed budget restructure, but not the elimination of the Envi-
ronmental Health Program which the recommendation funds in the
Ecosystems Mission Area. The recommendation provides
$91,181,000 for Energy and Minerals, $1,140,000 above the enacted
level which provides fixed costs and equal to the budget request.
The Committee recommends $60,664,000 for the Mineral Re-
sources Program, the budget request, which includes $10,598,000
to support the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative, Earth MRI.
This funding level allows the Survey to work with Federal and
State partners to modernize the Nation’s understanding of the sub-
surface and improve the topographic, geological, and geophysical
mapping of the United States. Making this data available electroni-
cally supports management of private-sector mineral exploration of
critical minerals and land-use planning.
The recommendation includes $30,517,000 for the Energy Re-
sources Program, the budget request. The Survey is directed to col-
laborate with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to make
sure any research or energy assessments do not adversely impact
species or their habitats.
Natural Hazards.—The Committee recommends $173,588,000 for
Natural Hazards Programs, $2,718,000 above the enacted level and
$35,589,000 above the budget request.
The recommendation does not accept the reductions proposed in
the budget request and provides $86,539,000 for Earthquake haz-
ards, $1,636,000 above the enacted level and $26,229,000 above the
budget request. The Committee strongly supports the Earthquake
Hazards program and recommends $25,700,000 for continued de-
velopment and expansion of the ShakeAlert West Coast earthquake
early warning (EEW) system and for capital costs associated with
the buildout of the ShakeAlert EEW. The Survey is encouraged to
continue its collaboration with California, Oregon, and Washington
to advance this program. The recommendation funds deferred
maintenance and modernization for the Advanced National Seismic
System, Regional Seismic Network Support, and the Seismic Net-
work, which includes the Central and Eastern U.S. Seismic Net-
work, at no less than the enacted level. Funding for the operation
and maintenance of the 43 adopted Earthscope USArray stations
is maintained at $3,000,000. The recommendation provides the
funding requested for the next update of the National Seismic Haz-
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ard Model. The Survey may use up to $500,000 from within avail-
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46
able funds to update the seismic hazard models and maps for Puer-
to Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands in the same manner that is
being done for the models for Alaska and Hawaii. The Survey shall
submit a report to the Committee on the updating of the National
Seismic Hazard Map within 180 days of enactment of this Act.
The Committee remains concerned about the lack of knowledge
and offshore real-time instrumentation available for the Cascadia
subduction zone. Scientific understanding of earthquakes and the
ocean environment will benefit from the wealth of offshore data col-
lected. The Survey is to continue its development of an early earth-
quake warning system and its expansion into locations that will
benefit from early detection and characterization of earthquakes
and tsunamis, to include the Caribbean Basin.
The recommendation does not accept the proposed reductions for
the Volcano Hazards program and provides $30,695,000, $429,000
above the enacted level for fixed costs. Maintaining the current
level of funding for operations at high-threat volcanoes, next gen-
eration lahar detection operations, and next generation lahar detec-
tion system infrastructure on very high-threat volcanoes ensures
there is a system and equipment in place to monitor, detect, and
warn the public of volcano and seismic hazards, including lahars,
and earthquakes on high-threat volcanoes.
The Committee does not accept the proposed reduction for the
Landslides Hazards program, and provides $4,091,000, $53,000
above the enacted level for fixed costs. This funding level will pre-
vent human and economic loss through the development of meth-
ods and models for landslide hazard assessment, monitoring, and
tools for landslide early warning and situational awareness.
The recommendation does not accept the proposed reduction for
station upgrades for the Global Seismographic Network (GSN) and
provides $7,189,000, $36,000 above the enacted level for fixed costs.
Adequate resources are provided to continue the multiyear effort to
replace failing and obsolete equipment, install new Department of
Energy funded sensors, and maintain the network at a high level
of quality and reliability.
The USGS Geomagnetism program is part of the U.S. National
Space Weather Program (NSWP), an interagency collaboration that
includes programs in the National Aeronautics and Space Adminis-
tration, Department of Defense, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, and National Science Foundation. The program
provides data to the NSWP agencies, oil drilling services compa-
nies, geophysical surveying companies, and electrical transmission
utilities. The Committee funds this program at $4,025,000, $25,000
above the enacted level for fixed costs, to ensure that all 14 mag-
netic observatories remain open and operating and to avoid any
disruption to this work. Funding is also provided to support the
second year of the Magnetotelluric Survey of the contiguous United
States.
The Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources program sup-
ports the hazards programs across the Survey and the Administra-
tion’s priorities to ensure secure and reliable supplies of critical
mineral and energy resources. The recommendation includes
$41,049,000, $539,000 above the enacted level for fixed costs and
ctelli on DSK30NT082PROD with REPORTS
rejects the proposed reductions.
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Water Resources.—The Committee does not accept the proposed
budget restructure. If the Survey proposes another budget restruc-
ture in the fiscal year 2022 budget request, it should clearly outline
the proposed programmatic changes and easily identify where sig-
nificant programs will be housed. The recommendation funds
Water Resources in the fiscal year 2020 budget structure and pro-
vides $237,443,000, $3,323,000 above the enacted level and
$56,634,000 above the budget request.
The recommendation includes $46,051,000 for the Water Avail-
ability and Use Science Program, $1,436,000 below the enacted
level and rejects the proposed reductions. Instead of eliminating
funding for the Mississippi Alluvial Plain Aquifer Assessment as
requested, the Committee provides $3,000,000 to continue this re-
search program including monitoring saltwater intrusion. The
Committee understands the Survey has already funded four major
projects at the Lower Mississippi Gulf Water Science Center to
map salinity constituents in the Mississippi Alluvial aquifer and
Middle Claiborne Aquifer, monitor and model groundwater, and as-
sess aquifer chlorides. The Survey is encouraged to include a pro-
posal in the fiscal year 2022 budget request to monitor saltwater
intrusion. The recommendation provides $1,000,000 to initiate re-
search that examines the hydrologic impact of extraction of water
for bottling on water tables, on concentrations of contaminants, on
saltwater intrusion into the groundwater, and to better understand
water availability. The Water Resources Mission Area allows the
Survey to provide information and tools to first responders, the
public, water managers and planners, policy makers, and other de-
cision makers. The Committee urges the Survey to continue to en-
gage with universities and other partners to utilize the best avail-
able technology to develop advanced modeling tools, state-of-the-art
forecasts, and decision support systems for water emergencies and
daily water operations. The recommendation maintains the enacted
level of funding for the U.S.-Mexico Transboundary Aquifer Assess-
ment. The Committee supports the Survey’s work on the develop-
ment of an irrigation withdrawal model which will include con-
sumptive use. The Survey is to brief the Committee 120 days after
enactment of this Act on what is needed to improve model perform-
ance and assist water resource managers in their planning for cur-
rent and future needs.
The Cooperative Matching Funds program is designed to bring
State, Tribal, and local partners together to respond to emerging
water issues through shared efforts and funding. The recommenda-
tion provides $64,029,000, an increase of $500,000 above the en-
acted level.
Streamgages are crucial to early warning and flood damage re-
duction efforts across the United States. The Committee rec-
ommends $85,752,000 for the National Groundwater and
Streamflow Information Program, $1,579,000 above the enacted
level. This increase provides for fixed costs and an additional
$500,000 for the Survey to acquire an additional 10 flood-hardened
gages for the Federal Priority Streamgage (FPS) network and sup-
ports approximately 3,480 streamgages in the Federal Priority
Streamgage Network, which accelerates attainment of the Survey’s
long-term goal of 4,760 sites. The Committee does not accept any
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of the proposed program reductions, including the elimination of
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funding for Tribal Waters which the recommendation maintains at
the enacted level.
The Committee recommends $94,640,000 for the National Water
Quality program, $2,180,000 above the enacted level. The rec-
ommendation rejects the proposed reductions and includes an in-
crease of $500,000 for the Urban Waters Federal Partnership for
a total funding level of $1,500,000. To understand the health ef-
fects of harmful algal blooms (HABs), monitor, characterize, pre-
vent, and control them, the recommendation includes an increase
of $500,000 for a total of no less than $5,471,000. This increase
provides for the implementation of a sentinel system, using multi-
sensor satellite data, that will continuously monitor the U.S. for
HABs and provide rapid response alerts to water resource agencies,
health departments, and the public. As part of this research, the
Committee supports the Survey’s examination of the pathways
through which sediment and nutrients move through watersheds
and into bodies of water and how that relates to the formation of
harmful algal blooms. The Survey is also urged to coordinate with
the Environmental Protection Agency to monitor the nations water
systems and publish available data on the amount of per- and
polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFOA/PFAS) detected in our water sys-
tems.
The Water Resources Research Act was designed to provide more
effective coordination of the Nation’s water research by establishing
Water Resources Research Institutes at universities in each State,
territory, and the District of Columbia. These institutes provide
vital support to stakeholders, States, and Federal agencies for long-
term water planning, policy development, and resource manage-
ment. The recommendation does not accept the proposed elimi-
nation of funding for this program and provides $11,000,000,
$1,000,000 above the enacted level. Research initiated in fiscal year
2020 on aquatic invasive species in the Upper Mississippi River re-
gion to address a critical need for multi-state research is main-
tained at no less than the enacted level. The Committee encourages
the continuation of the development of multi-state research teams
to coordinate needed research for aquatic invasive species in the
basin and requests a briefing on the aquatic invasive species hydro-
logic research proposals that are approved. The Survey is encour-
aged to use the additional resources provided in the recommenda-
tion to support PFAS research.
Core Science Systems.—The Committee accepts the proposed
budget restructure to include National Land Mapping in the Core
Science Systems Mission Area and recommends $252,291,000 for
Core Science Systems, $40,242,000 above the budget request.
National Land Imaging.—The Committee recommends
$107,218,000 for National Land Imaging, $21,305,000 above the
budget request. The recommendation does not accept the proposed
program reductions and provides $84,337,000 for Satellite Oper-
ations; $4,847,000 for the National Civil Applications Center; and
$1,215,000 for Remote Sensing State grants, the enacted levels.
Science, Synthesis, Analysis and Research.—The recommendation
does not include the proposed reduction for the USGS Library and
provides $24,273,000, $222,000 above the enacted level for fixed
costs. Funding for the National Geologic and Geophysical Data
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Preservation Program is continued at the enacted level.
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National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program.—The rec-
ommendation does not accept any of the proposed program reduc-
tions and includes $40,685,000 for the National Geologic Mapping
Program, $6,288,000 above the enacted level. This increase in-
cludes fixed costs and provides $6,000,000 above the enacted level
to accelerate new mapping and sustain Phase Three of the Na-
tional Geologic Map Database. This effort is bringing together de-
tailed national and continental resolution 2D and 3D information,
produced throughout the Survey and by federal and state partners,
that is an essential underpinning of the USGS Earth Map and
Earth MRI initiatives and will enhance drinking water protection,
hazards resilience, infrastructure design, natural resource manage-
ment, and support a wide range of fundamental research applica-
tions.
National Geospatial Program.—The recommendation includes
$80,115,000 for the National Geospatial Program, $661,000 above
the enacted level for fixed costs. The recommendation provides no
less than $46,000,000 for the 3D Elevation Program and directs the
Survey to complete 100% coverage of the Great Lakes region, begin
expanding coverage to the southeastern United States region, and
to include a detailed cost estimate for achieving 100% coverage of
that region in the fiscal year 2022 budget justification. The Com-
mittee supports the continued collaboration with partners to lever-
age the resources provided for 3DEP to achieve the goal of national
coverage by 2026. Funding for the U.S. Topo program should be at
no less than the enacted level and the Survey should continue to
procure product-on-demand updates. The recommendation includes
funding at the enacted level to produce digital surface models using
unclassified satellite optical data for the U.S. and territories not
mapped with LiDAR by 2021 in collaboration with appropriate U.S.
agencies including the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency,
NASA, and the National Science Foundation. The Committee un-
derstands State and Federal agencies can use high accuracy lidar
from the 3DEP program to quickly and remotely identify the loca-
tion, size, and shape of sinkholes. and encourages the Survey to
consider the inclusion of areas with a high risk of sinkhole develop-
ment for repeat coverage. The Committee understands any funding
awarded outside the Federal sector will undergo a competitive re-
view process.
The Committee notes the importance of this mission area to con-
duct detailed surveys and distribute the resulting high-quality and
highly accurate topographic, geologic, hydrographic, and bio-
geographic maps and remotely sensed data to the public. The Com-
mittee urges the Survey to continue to engage with universities
and other partners to avoid duplication and utilize the best avail-
able technology to develop scalable, automated systems that can
rapidly identify emerging hazard threats and provide real-time
risk, damage and vulnerability assessments, and planning capabili-
ties onto a website to provide enough precision to aid emergency
responders and decision makers in easy to understand language,
maps, graphics, and other appropriate outputs. The Committee un-
derstands the Survey has a long tradition of supporting university
partners through peer-reviewed cooperative agreements and com-
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petitively awarded grants.
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50
Science Support.—The Committee recommends $97,245,000,
$417,000 above the enacted level which provides for fixed costs and
reflects the transfer of ethics functions to the Office of the Solicitor.
The recommendation does not accept the proposed reduction for
program operations. The Committee expects administration and
management services and information services to continue without
reductions that would delay hiring, contracting, accounting func-
tions, and other activities that support the missions of the Survey.
Facilities.—The recommendation includes $179,982,000, $901,000
below the enacted level and $52,345,000 above the budget request.
The recommendation includes $109,718,000 for Rental Payments
and Operations and Maintenance, $4,999,000 above the enacted
level and $6,344,000 below the budget request. The recommenda-
tion does not provide the total increase requested but includes
funding for rent increases at the National Center in Reston, the
Denver Federal Center, and Menlo Park. Funding for fixed costs
and for the relocation of Menlo Park to Moffett Field is also pro-
vided. For Deferred Maintenance and Capital Improvement, the
recommendation does not accept the proposed increase and reduc-
tions in the budget request and provides $70,264,000 which in-
cludes $11,264,000 for projects. The COVID–19 pandemic high-
lights the need for continued research on zoonotic diseases in safe
and secure facilities. The recommendation includes $59,000,000 for
discrete projects to renovate and support Biosafety level 2 and 3
Diagnostic Laboratories at the National Wildlife Health Center and
ensure the facility has the capability to safely investigate out-
breaks of wildlife disease. The Committee understands COVID–19
has impacted the co-locating of the USGS Mineral Resources Pro-
gram research laboratories and personnel into a facility to be con-
structed on the campus of the Colorado School of Mines. The Sur-
vey is directed to update the Committee on this collaborative
project within 60 days of enactment of this Act.
BUREAU OF OCEAN ENERGY MANAGEMENT
OCEAN ENERGY MANAGEMENT
(INCLUDING RESCISSION OF FUNDS)
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $191,611,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 188,815,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 186,815,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... ¥4,796,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ ¥2,000,000
The Committee recommends $186,815,000 for the Ocean Energy
Management appropriation. This amount is $4,796,000 below the
enacted level and $2,000,000 below the budget request. The overall
funding level is partially offset through the collection of rental re-
ceipts and other cost recovery fees totaling $63,055,000, resulting
in a final appropriation of $123,760,000. The recommendation also
includes a rescission of $2,000,000 in prior year unobligated bal-
ances. Details of the recommendation are explained through the
narrative below and the table at the back of this report.
Renewable Energy.—The Committee recommends $29,465,000 for
Renewable Energy, $6,140,000 above the enacted level and
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$3,000,000 above the budget request. Changes to the request in-
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51
clude an increase of $3,000,000 for additional offshore wind leasing
activities and review of construction and operating plans.
Conventional Energy.—The Committee recommends $58,487,000
for Conventional Energy, $4,474,000 below the enacted level and
$2,000,000 below the budget request. Changes to the request in-
clude an additional reduction of $2,000,000 in national program ac-
tivities for a total reduction in that area of $5,500,000.
Environmental Assessment.—The Committee recommends
$72,875,000 for Environmental Assessment, $9,582,000 below the
enacted level and $3,000,000 below the budget request. Changes to
the request include an additional reduction of $3,000,000 in na-
tional program activities for a total reduction of $12,000,000.
Marine Minerals.—The Committee recommends $8,781,000 for
Marine Minerals, $3,052,000 above the enacted level and equal to
the budget request. The Committee supports the sand inventory as
a key component of coastal mitigation efforts.
Executive Direction.—The Committee recommends $17,207,000
for Executive Direction, $68,000 above the enacted level and equal
to the budget request.
General Provision.—Within the General Provisions section of this
title, the Committee has included a provision which restricts fund-
ing for the Bureau’s offshore oil and gas activities to only those
planning areas contained in the current 2017–2022 Outer Conti-
nental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing program, published in November
2016. The restriction applies to the enabling steps prior to leasing
or to the consideration of areas for leasing as part of a leasing pro-
gram, including the issuance of permits for geological and geo-
physical exploration. The Committee does not sanction the defini-
tion of OCS preleasing activities contained in H. Rpt. 102–116 p 46–
47) and directs the Bureau to discontinue reliance on that descrip-
tion.
BUREAU OF SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENFORCEMENT
OFFSHORE SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENFORCEMENT
(INCLUDING RESCISSION OF FUNDS)
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $192,812,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 196,286,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 197,786,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +4,974,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ 1,500,000
OFFSHORE SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENFORCEMENT
The Committee recommends $197,786,000 for the Offshore Safety
and Environmental Enforcement appropriation. This amount is
$4,974,000 above the enacted level and $1,500,000 above the budg-
et request. The overall funding level is partially offset through the
collection of rental receipts, other cost recovery fees, and inspection
fees totaling $73,647,000, resulting in a final appropriation of
$124,139,000. The recommendation also includes a rescission of
$10,000,000 in prior year unobligated balances. The change to the
request includes an increase of $1,500,000 in the Operations activ-
ity to accommodate the hiring of additional inspectors in the Gulf
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of Mexico region. As the Bureau has acknowledged, the Gulf in-
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52
spector corps has recently declined by 11 percent, from 120 inspec-
tors in fiscal year 2017 to 107 in February of this year. Given cur-
rent events in the offshore oil and gas industry and given that fi-
nancial stressors can have an impact on safety, the Committee be-
lieves the addition of inspectors is a prudent approach.
OIL SPILL RESEARCH
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $14,899,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 12,700,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 14,899,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... 0
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +2,199,000
The Committee recommends $14,899,000 for the Oil Spill Re-
search appropriation, equal to the enacted level and $2,199,000
above the budget request. The Committee has not agreed to the
proposed reduction for the same reason noted in its fiscal year 2020
report (H. Rpt. 116–100); namely that the Bureau continues to ac-
knowledge it has $7,000,000 worth of maintenance pending at the
Ohmsett Oil Spill Research Facility. The Committee urges the Bu-
reau to apply these funds to the tank maintenance project and/or
the main bridge replacement project.
OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT
REGULATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $117,768,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 93,202,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 97,589,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... ¥20,179,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +4,487,000
The Committee recommends $97,589,000 for the Regulation and
Technology appropriation. This amount is $20,179,000 below the
enacted level and $4,487,000 above the budget request. The rec-
ommendation adopts a $21,000,000 reduction in the State and trib-
al grants line, made possible because of carryover funds from prior
fiscal years. The Committee understands that this is a one-time oc-
currence. Additional details regarding the recommendation are con-
tained in the table at the back of this report.
ABANDONED MINE RECLAMATION FUND
(INCLUDING RESCISSION OF FUNDS)
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $139,713,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 23,064,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 137,811,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... ¥1,902,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +114,747,000
The Committee recommends $137,811,000 for the Abandoned
Mine Reclamation Fund appropriation, $1,902,000 below the en-
acted level and $114,747,000 above the budget request. Of the
funds provided, $22,811,000 are derived from the Abandoned Mine
Reclamation Fund and $115,000,000 are derived from the general
treasury. The recommendation restores the proposed reduction in
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the economic development grants line, which the Committee con-
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53
tinues under the same terms and conditions as contained in the fis-
cal year 2020 enacted bill. The recommendation also includes a re-
scission of $13,000,000 in unobligated funds originally made avail-
able in fiscal year 2016 or before. Additional details regarding the
recommendation are contained in the table at the back of this re-
port.
Guidance on Economic Development Plans.—The Committee com-
mends the Office for updating and republishing its guidance for en-
tities applying for economic development funds. The Committee
concurs with the Office that projects should be scrutinized to en-
sure the best use of these resources and for the protection of the
program’s integrity.
Passive Treatment Systems.—The Committee is concerned about
protecting the investments made by the Office over the past several
years in the construction of Passive Treatment Systems, designed
to address water pollution discharges from abandoned mine lands.
The Committee therefore directs the Office to present a plan, with-
in 90 days of enactment of this Act, to implement a program to pro-
vide grants for non-governmental organizations and local and state
government agencies to help operate, maintain, and rehabilitate
abandoned mine land passive treatment systems that were con-
structed to address water pollution.
INDIAN AFFAIRS
BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
The Bureau of Indian Affairs and Office of the Assistant Sec-
retary—Indian Affairs (together, ‘‘Indian Affairs’’) programs serve
573 federally recognized Indian Tribes, a service population of ap-
proximately two million American Indians and Alaska Natives in
Tribal and Native communities. The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA)
provides direct services and funding for compacts and contracts for
Tribes to provide Federal programs for a wide range of activities
necessary for community development. Programs address Tribal
government, natural resource management, trust services, law en-
forcement, economic development, and social service needs.
In preparation for the fiscal year 2021 appropriation bill, the
Subcommittee held two days of hearings and received testimony
from approximately 90 witnesses on a variety of topics pertaining
to American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) programs. The Fed-
eral government has a legal and moral obligation to provide quality
services to AI/AN. On a nonpartisan basis, the Committee con-
tinues to protect and, where possible, strengthen the budgets for
Indian Country programs in this bill in order to address long-
standing and underfunded needs.
OPERATION OF INDIAN PROGRAMS
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $1,577,110,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 1,446,694,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 1,641,086,000
Comparison:
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Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +63,976,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +194,392,000
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54
The Committee recommends $1,641,086,000 for Operation of In-
dian Programs, $63,976,000 above the enacted level and
$194,392,000 above the budget request. All subactivities and pro-
gram elements presented in the budget estimate submitted to Con-
gress are continued at enacted levels and adjusted for internal
transfers unless specifically addressed below. The recommendation
includes fixed costs as requested where specified and, unless other-
wise indicated, all increases are general program adjustments.
None of the requested program changes are agreed to unless spe-
cifically addressed below. Recommended program changes, instruc-
tions, and details follow below and in the table at the end of this
report. Additional instructions are included in the front of this re-
port.
In addition to funds provided in this bill, the Coronavirus Aid,
Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) (P.L. 116–136) in-
cluded $453,000,000 for the Operation of Indian Programs to pre-
vent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus, domestically or inter-
nationally. Due to the lack of infrastructure, the ongoing pandemic
is hitting Indian Country harder than most other areas.
The Committee once again notes that due to internal transfers
requested by Indian Tribes, some increases and decreases in pro-
gram lines are anomalies. These anomalies create confusion in In-
dian Country about true funding levels for various programs. The
Committee directs Indian Affairs to consult with Indian Tribes
about the need to include Tribally-requested internal transfers on
the budget program line if there is no impact on the ability of com-
pacting and contracting Indian Tribes to transfer funds among pro-
grams. This will provide more transparency in future years about
the amount of funds appropriated for various activities. The Com-
mittee directs Indian Affairs to include a Tribal internal transfer
table within the annual budget submission.
Fixed Costs.—The Committee directs BIA to submit to the Com-
mittee actual fixed costs indicating separate amounts for Indian
Tribes and for BIA, at the same time the annual budget justifica-
tion is sent to Congress.
Tribal Priority Allocations.—Tribal Priority Allocations (TPA)
programs fund basic Tribal services, such as social services, job
placement and training, child welfare, natural resources manage-
ment, and Tribal courts. TPA programs give Tribes the opportunity
to further Indian self-determination by establishing their own pri-
orities and reallocating Federal funds among programs in this
budget category. The recommendation includes $731,490,000 for
BIA TPA programs.
Tiwahe.—The Committee directs BIA to continue funding for the
Tiwahe (family) initiative at fiscal year 2020 levels across all pro-
grams and activities with funding distributed in the same amounts
to the same recipients, including funding to support women and
children’s shelters. Numerous Tribes have expressed interest in op-
erating a Tiwahe program, yet Congress is unable to assess wheth-
er changes should be made before expanding the program because
Indian Affairs has not provided the final report as directed by
House Report 115–765 and by the explanatory statement accom-
panying P.L. 116–94. The bill provides that $1,000,000 of funds
provided for Assistant Secretary Support within Executive Direc-
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tion and Administrative Services is not available for obligation
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55
until Indian Affairs provides the requested Tiwahe reports to the
Committee.
Vacancies.—The Committee is concerned about the number of va-
cant positions throughout BIA. Staff shortages during the ongoing
coronavirus pandemic is highlighting BIA’s inability to fulfill its
trust and treaty obligations to Indian Tribes. The Committee di-
rects BIA to submit a list and location of vacant FTE positions by
program within 90 days of enactment of this Act.
Tribal data.—The CARES Act required the Department of Treas-
ury to consult with Indian Affairs on distributing funds provided
to Treasury. As part of that consultation, Indian Affairs received
sensitive Tribal data, which was then leaked. The Committee is
disturbed by Indian Affairs’ recent leak of sensitive Tribal data and
expects the Inspector General to submit a report within 60 days of
enactment of this Act on actions taken to correct the activity lead-
ing to the leak, whether the leak was intentional, actions taken to
ensure the leak does not happen again and to report any discipli-
nary actions taken against employees responsible for the leak.
Tribal Government.—The recommendation includes $336,887,000
for Tribal Government programs, $2,708,000 above the enacted
level and $464,000 below the budget request. The recommendation
includes internal transfers, as requested. The recommendation in-
cludes $26,831,000 for Aid to Tribal Government, $610,000 below
the enacted level and $270,000 below the budget request;
$80,978,000 for Consolidated Tribal Government Program,
$5,297,000 above the enacted level and $708,000 below the budget
request; $176,359,000 for Self-Governance Compacts, $3,706,000
below the enacted level and $1,870,000 below the budget request;
$1,464,000 for New Tribes inclusive of fixed costs as requested,
$183,000 above the enacted level and equal to the budget request;
$5,000,000 for Small and Needy Tribes, equal to the enacted level
and $100,000 above the budget request; and $8,895,000 for Tribal
Government Program Oversight inclusive of fixed costs as re-
quested, $247,000 above the enacted level and $150,000 above the
budget request.
The recommendation also includes $37,360,000 for Road Mainte-
nance inclusive of fixed costs as requested, $1,297,000 above the
enacted level and $2,134,000 above the budget request. The Com-
mittee continues funding for school bus roads at the enacted level
and includes an additional $1,064,000 to improve the condition of
unpaved roads and bridges used by school buses transporting stu-
dents. BIA is directed to report to the Committee within 90 days
of enactment of this Act on the distribution of funds provided for
school bus routes.
The Committee is concerned about reports from some Tribes that
their transportation funding has been dramatically reduced since
2004 following the shift to a statutory Tribal transportation fund-
ing distribution formula from the ‘‘relative need’’ distribution for-
mula produced in a Tribal-negotiated rulemaking process. These
funding formula cuts have put at risk the ability of some tribes to
make effective use of their scarce BIA road maintenance and safety
funds. The Committee directs BIA to report, within 90 days of en-
actment of this Act, to the House and Senate Committees on Ap-
propriations on how formula funding levels have changed over the
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course of the past 16 years, Tribe by Tribe, State by State, and re-
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56
gion by region so the Committee can compare how the statutory
formula has changed Tribal distributions from the relative needs
distribution formula (as published in Vol. 69, No. 137 of the July
19, 2004 Federal Register at page 43090).
Human Services.—The recommendation includes $166,755,000
for Human Services programs, $11,070,000 above the enacted level
and $79,265,000 above the budget request. The Committee includes
all proposed internal transfers and fixed costs as requested and re-
jects all proposed program reductions and eliminations. Within this
amount, the Committee provides $53,995,000 for Social Services
(TPA), $2,521,000 above the enacted level and $2,620,000 above the
budget request; $78,000,000 for Welfare Assistance (TPA),
$3,266,000 above the enacted level and $61,138,000 above the
budget request; $290,000 for Human Services Tribal Design (TPA),
$17,000 above the enacted level and equal to the budget request;
and $3,126,000 for Human Services Program Oversight, $61,000
above the enacted level and equal to the budget request.
Within this amount, the Committee provides $19,636,000 for In-
dian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) (TPA), $5,205,000 above the en-
acted level and $3,799,000 above the budget request. The rec-
ommendation continues the $1,000,000 provided in fiscal year 2020
for off-reservation programs authorized by section 202 of ICWA (25
U.S.C. § 1932). The Committee directs BIA to report to the Com-
mittee within 90 days of enactment of this Act on the distribution
of funds provided for off-reservation programs and identify any
challenges to obligating funds.
The Committee rejects the proposed elimination of the Housing
Improvement Program and instead provides $11,708,000 for the
program, equal to the enacted level.
Trust—Natural Resources Management.—The recommendation
includes $240,369,000 for Trust-Natural Resources Management
programs, $13,550,000 above the enacted level, and $30,643,000
above the budget request. The Committee rejects the transfer of
Minerals and Mining program to Trust-Natural Resources Manage-
ment. Otherwise, the recommendation includes all proposed inter-
nal transfers, rejects all proposed program reductions and elimi-
nations, and includes fixed costs where specified.
The Committee is concerned about illegal dumping and other en-
vironmentally harmful activity that occurs on allotted trust land,
specifically in the Pacific Region. The Committee encourages the
Agency to use available resources to assist Tribes in enforcing envi-
ronmental codes and ordinances, as well as support Tribal con-
sortia protecting against illegal dumping.
There has been recent momentum in achieving Everglades res-
toration with the funding provided for Endangered Species,
Invasive Species and Natural Resources (TPA). The Committee
continues funding for Everglades restoration funding at no less
than the fiscal year 2019 enacted level across all programs and
strongly encourages BIA to continue prioritizing funding for Ever-
glades restoration activities.
Natural Resources (TPA).—The recommendation includes
$12,344,000 for Natural Resources (TPA), $3,103,000 above the en-
acted level and $7,737,000 above the budget request.
Between fiscal years 2019 and 2020, the Committee appropriated
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$3,500,000 to BIA to fulfill the remaining authorization in section
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57
7 of the Elwha River Ecosystem and Fisheries Restoration Act
(Act). The Committee expects the Secretary of the Interior and the
Director of BIA to work with the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe to
identify appropriate land for acquisition to satisfy the requirements
of the Act by the end of fiscal year 2021.
Section 9003 of the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Manage-
ment, and Recreation Act of 2019 (Dingell Act) includes provisions
of the 21st Century Conservation Service Corps Act. The Dingell
Act established the Indian Youth Service Corps to provide opportu-
nities to expand Tribal youth engagement and service on public
land. The recommendation includes $4,000,000 to establish and im-
plement an Indian Youth Service Corps program at BIA.
The recommendation includes $1,338,000 to assess and conduct
key safety and sanitation improvements at several in-lieu treaty
fishing sites along the Columbia River as authorized by the Colum-
bia River In-Lieu and Treaty Fishing Access Sites Improvement
Act.
Irrigation Operations and Maintenance.—The recommendation
includes $14,087,000 for Irrigation Operations and Maintenance in-
clusive of fixed costs as requested, $56,000 above the enacted level
and equal to the budget request.
Rights Protection Implementation.—The recommendation in-
cludes $41,811,000 for Rights Protection Implementation inclusive
of fixed costs as requested, $68,000 above the enacted level and
$1,500,000 above the budget request.
Tribal Management/Development Program.—The recommenda-
tion includes $13,387,000 for Tribal Management/Development Pro-
gram inclusive of fixed costs as requested, $241,000 above the en-
acted level and $2,200,000 above the budget request. Within
amounts provided, the Committee includes an additional $200,000
to manage salmon and steelhead fisheries as part of the Salmon
and Steelhead Habitat Inventory and Assessment Program.
The Committee expects Indian Affairs to examine the historical
funding provided for buffalo preservation and management in com-
parison to other Native food activities, such as the preservation
and management of fish. In fiscal year 2020, the Committee di-
rected Indian Affairs compare historical funding provided to Native
food preservation and management activities and a plan to ensure
parity among Native food activities to the Committee within 90
days of enactment of that Act. The Committee has not received this
information and directs Indian Affairs to provide this information
within 90 days of enactment of this Act.
Endangered Species.—The recommendation includes $6,708,000
for Endangered Species inclusive of fixed costs, $3,010,000 above
the enacted level and $5,700,000 above the budget request.
Tribal Climate Resilience/Cooperative Landscape Conservation.—
The Committee rejects the proposed elimination of Tribal Climate
Resilience/Cooperative Landscape Conservation. Instead, the rec-
ommendation includes $17,956,000 for Tribal Climate Resilience/
Cooperative Landscape, $3,000,000 above the enacted level.
Climate Resilience and Adaptation.—The Committee supports
BIA’s efforts to address the resiliency needs of Tribal communities
by working to address threats to public safety, natural resources,
and sacred sites. The Committee is particularly concerned about
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coastal Tribal communities and Alaska Native Villages that face
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58
severe challenges to their long-term resilience due to climate
change impacts.
Consistent with the Federal government’s treaty and trust obli-
gations, the Committee directs BIA to coordinate with all relevant
Federal agencies—including but not limited to the Federal Emer-
gency Management Agency, the Army Corps of Engineers, the Na-
tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Depart-
ments of Housing and Urban Development, Health and Human
Services, and Agriculture—to leverage resources to support a whole
of government approach to working with at-risk tribes to identify
and expedite the delivery of resources and technical assistance nec-
essary to support mitigation and relocation efforts.
Integrated Resource Information Program.—The recommendation
includes $2,983,000 for Integrated Resource Information Program
inclusive of fixed costs as requested, $7,000 above the enacted level
and $1,000,000 above the budget request.
Agriculture and Range Program.—The recommendation includes
$36,215,000 for the Agriculture and Range Program, $901,000
above the enacted level and $10,795,000 above to the budget re-
quest. Within this amount, the Committee recommends
$10,842,000 for Invasive Species inclusive of fixed costs as re-
quested and $25,373,000 for Agriculture Program (TPA). The Com-
mittee rejects the proposed FTE decrease.
Forestry.—The recommendation includes $54,537,000 for For-
estry, $936,000 below the enacted level and $461,000 above the
budget request. Within this amount, the Committee recommends
$27,588,000 for Forestry Program (TPA) inclusive of fixed costs as
requested and $26,949,000 for Forestry Projects.
Water Resources.—The recommendation includes $13,694,000 for
Water Resources inclusive of fixed costs as requested, $1,069,000
above the enacted level and $3,000,000 above the budget request.
Within this amount, $4,142,000 is provided for Water Resources
Program (TPA) and $9,552,000 is provided for Water Management,
Planning and Pre-Development.
Fish, Wildlife, and Parks.—The recommendation includes
$19,440,000 for Fish, Wildlife, and Parks inclusive of fixed costs as
requested, $2,950,000 above the enacted level and $5,000,000 above
the budget request. Within this amount $6,495,000 is provided for
Wildlife and Parks Program (TPA) and $12,945,000 is provided for
Fish, Wildlife, and Parks Projects.
Resource Management Program Oversight.—The recommendation
includes $7,207,000 for Resource Management Program Oversight
inclusive of fixed costs as requested, $81,000 above the enacted
level and $1,000,000 above the budget request.
Trust—Real Estate Services.—The recommendation includes
$144,321,000 for Trust-Real Estate Services, $6,224,000 above the
enacted level and $20,131,000 above the budget request. The rec-
ommendation includes proposed internal transfers and fixed costs,
as requested and rejects the proposed elimination of Litigation
Support/Attorney Fees and Other Indian Rights Protection within
the Rights Protection program, and rejects all proposed program re-
ductions.
Within amounts provided, the Committee recommends
$9,229,000 for Trust Services (TPA), $1,222,000 for Navajo-Hopi
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Settlement Program, $13,034,000 for Probate (TPA), $15,189,000
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for Land Titles and Records Offices, $38,516,000 for Real Estate
Services, $6,966,000 for Land Records Improvement, $24,785,000
for Environmental Quality, $1,496,000 for Alaska Native Programs,
$19,308,000 for Rights Protection, and $14,576,000 for Trust—Real
Estate Services Oversight.
Within amounts provided for Environmental Quality, the Com-
mittee recommends $4,880,000 for Environmental Quality Program
(TPA) and $19,905,000 for Environmental Quality Projects.
Within amounts provided for Rights Protection, the Committee
recommends $4,122,000 for Rights Protection (TPA), $11,963,000
for Water Rights Negotiations/Litigation, $3,050,000 for Litigation
Support/Attorney Fees, and $173,000 for Other Indian Rights Pro-
tection.
Public Safety and Justice.—The recommendation includes
$455,346,000 for Public Safety and Justice, $21,020,000 as re-
quested, and $31,624,000 above the budget request. The Committee
includes proposed internal transfers and fixed costs, as requested,
and rejects all proposed program reductions.
Within this amount, the Committee provides $409,337,000 for
Law Enforcement, $14,109,000 above the enacted level and
$18,954,000 above the budget request; $44,380,000 for Tribal
Courts (TPA), $6,873,000 above the enacted level and $12,650,000
above the budget request; and $1,629,000 for Fire Protection (TPA),
$38,000 above the enacted level and $20,000 above the budget re-
quest.
The Committee is aware that several public safety personnel and
detention center inmates have tested positive for coronavirus or
even worse, have passed away. The Committee expects BIA to pro-
vide and require public safety personnel and detainees to comply
with Center for Disease Control guidelines and wear masks.
The Committee recognizes that the proposal to modify the orga-
nizational structure to move management oversight of the Office of
Justice Services to the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Indian
Affairs requires legislative authority. Therefore, the Committee ex-
pects that none of the funds will be used to implement the reorga-
nization, either directly or indirectly, until such legislation is en-
acted.
The Committee has heard concerns from Tribal leaders that BIA
retains a large amount of funding designated for law enforcement
activities for Bureau activities. The fiscal year 2021 budget jus-
tification indicates that ‘‘close to 90 percent of funding under this
subactivity is used at the local level’’. While most of the funds do
seem to be used at the local level, it also means that over 10 per-
cent of the funds provided for this subactivity, or approximately
$40 million, is not being spent at the local level. As a result, the
Committee directs Indian Affairs to provide a detailed accounting
of funds retained for Bureau activities or not spent at the local
level within 90 days of enactment of this Act, including the activi-
ties funded, the number of employees by activity, and the number
of vacant positions.
Within amounts provided for Law Enforcement, $223,670,000 is
provided for Criminal Investigations and Police Services,
$7,744,000 above the enacted level and $7,312,000 above the budg-
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et request. The recommendation includes $1,000,000 to allow law
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60
enforcement officers to implement and enforce the Native American
Graves Protection and Repatriation Act.
Within amounts provided for Law Enforcement, $108,424,000 is
provided for Detention/Corrections, $3,086,000 above the enacted
level and $3,617,000 above the budget request. The Committee
notes that not all BIA regional detention facilities have opened due
to staffing shortages, despite funds having been provided for these
facilities. The Committee understands sufficient funds are avail-
able to continue operation of the staffed portions of these facilities.
Rather than have these funds remain unobligated, the Committee
directs that $2,500,000 of these balances be used towards needs at
other detention facilities located in Indian Country.
Within amounts provided for Law Enforcement, $3,590,000 is
provided for Inspections/Internal Affairs, $52,000 above the enacted
level and as requested.
Within amounts provided for Law Enforcement, $16,604,000 is
provided for Law Enforcement Special Initiatives, $1,662,000 above
the enacted level and $1,429,000 below the budget request. The
recommendation includes an additional $3,020,000, as requested.
In fiscal year 2020, Congress included $2,500,000 in one-time fund-
ing to focus on advanced training needs. No funds have been pro-
vided for this purpose in fiscal year 2021.
The Committee is concerned that there are insufficient BIA em-
ployees to assist victims and witnesses who are involved with
criminal prosecutions, including cases involving missing and mur-
dered indigenous women, in Tribal or Federal courts. The rec-
ommendation provides $1,071,000 for victim witness specialists and
related activities to assist with missing and murdered indigenous
women cases and other cases in Tribal and Federal courts. The
Committee directs BIA to report back within 120 days of enactment
of this Act on the number of Victim/Witness Assistance program
employees hired with these funds and how the funds will be used
to provide additional victim witness services throughout Indian
Country.
Over the last several years and again this year, Congress has in-
creased funds to hire more law enforcement officers and related
staff, yet similar increases have not been provided to train addi-
tional employees. Therefore, within amounts provided for Law En-
forcement, $5,485,000 is provided for the Indian Police Academy,
$546,000 above the enacted level and $750,000 above the budget
request. The Committee directs BIA to track the number of addi-
tional employees trained with the additional funds.
Within funds provided for Law Enforcement, $25,785,000 is pro-
vided for Tribal Justice Support, $11,000 above the enacted level
and $3,500,000 above the budget request. Of these amounts, the
Committee continues $3,000,000 to implement the Violence Against
Women Act in Indian Country, and $14,000,000 for P.L. 280 courts.
Within funds provided for Law Enforcement, $6,732,000 is pro-
vided for Law Enforcement Program Management, as requested,
and $164,000 above the enacted level.
Within funds provided for Law Enforcement, $19,047,000 is pro-
vided for Facilities Operations and Maintenance, $844,000 above
the enacted level and $5,204,000 above the budget request.
Community and Economic Development.—The recommendation
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includes $54,382,000 for Community and Economic Development
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inclusive of fixed costs as requested, $1,853,000 above the enacted
level and $26,910,000 above the budget request. The Committee re-
jects all proposed program reductions and does not agree to the
transfer of Minerals and Mining.
Within amounts provided, the Committee includes $13,515,000
for Job Placement and Training (TPA), $2,931,000 for Economic
Development (TPA), $26,645,000 for Minerals and Mining, and
$11,291,000 for Community Development Oversight. The rec-
ommendation includes an additional $1,000,000 to implement the
NATIVE Act and an additional $500,000 to assist Tribes in assum-
ing BIA Realty functions under the Helping Expedite and Advance
Responsible Tribal Home Ownership Act of 2012 (HEARTH Act).
The budget proposes to realign the Indian Energy Service Center
with the Division of Energy and Mineral Development. However,
Tribal consultation is necessary before the Committee considers
such realignment. Until Tribal consultation is complete and Indian
Country fully evaluates the need for realignment, the Committee
expects that no funds other than those necessary for Tribal con-
sultation will be used towards the realignment. Within funds pro-
vided for Minerals and Mining, $4,139,000 is provided for Minerals
and Mining Program (TPA), $16,103,000 is provided for Minerals
and Mining Projects, $5,450,000 is provided for Minerals and Min-
ing Central Oversight, and $953,000 is provided for Minerals and
Mining Regional Oversight.
The recommendation continues $1,000,000 for modernizing
records within Minerals and Mining. The Office of Indian Energy
and Economic Development (Office) should assist Tribes to enhance
economic development and improve access to private financing of
development projects. The Office should assist with feasibility stud-
ies and provide technical assistance to Tribes to establish commer-
cial codes, courts and other business structures. Further, the Office
should undertake efforts to build Tribal capacity to lease Tribal
lands and manage economic and energy resource development. Fi-
nally, the Office should explore opportunities to foster incubators of
Tribal-owned and other Native American-owned businesses. The
Office is expected to track accomplishments for each of these pur-
poses and to report them annually in its budget justification.
Executive Direction and Administrative Services.—The rec-
ommendation includes $243,026,000 for Executive Direction and
Administrative Services, $7,551,000 above the enacted level and
$6,283,000 above the budget request. The Committee includes pro-
posed internal transfers and fixed costs, as requested and rejects
all proposed program reductions and the proposed decrease to labor
related payments.
The following programs are funded as follows: $10,388,000 for
Assistant Secretary Support, $21,132,000 for Executive Direction,
$49,296,000 for Administrative Services, $3,098,000 for Safety and
Risk Management, $45,723,000 for Information Resources Tech-
nology, $24,517,000 for Human Capital Management, $18,990,000
for Facilities Management, $25,393,000 for Intra-Governmental
Payments, and $44,489,000 for Rentals.
The bill withholds $1,000,000 from Assistant Secretary Support
until Indian Affairs provides the requested Tiwahe reports. The
Committee intends that no other programs or activities will be re-
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duced to offset the decreased funds until the reports are provided.
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CONTRACT SUPPORT COSTS
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $271,000,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 335,000,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 335,000,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +64,000,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ 0
The Committee recommends an indefinite appropriation esti-
mated to be $335,000,000 for contract support costs incurred by the
Agency as required by law. The bill includes language making
available for two years such sums as are necessary to meet the
Federal government’s full legal obligation and prohibiting the
transfer of funds to any other account for any other purpose.
PAYMENT FOR TRIBAL LEASES
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $0
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 21,593,000
Recommended, 2021 21,593,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +21,593,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ 0
The Committee recommends an indefinite appropriation esti-
mated to be $21,593,000 for payments for Tribal leases incurred by
the Agency as required by law. The bill includes language making
available for two years such sums as are necessary to meet the
Federal government’s full legal obligation and prohibiting the
transfer of funds to any other account for any other purpose. The
Committee expects Indian Affairs to consult with Indian tribes on
the implementation of this new budget line.
BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS CONSTRUCTION
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $128,591,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 59,759,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 128,818,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +227,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +69,059,000
The Committee recommends $128,818,000 for BIA Construction,
$227,000 above the enacted level and $69,059,000 above the budget
request. The Federal portion of fixed costs, as requested, are in-
cluded. All subactivities and program elements presented in the
budget estimate submitted to Congress are continued at enacted
levels. The Committee rejects all proposed program reductions and
eliminations and does not agree to any requested program changes
unless specifically addressed below. Recommended program
changes, instructions, and details follow below and in the table at
the end of this report. Additional instructions are included in the
front of this report.
Public Safety and Justice Construction.—The recommendation
provides $42,811,000 for Public Safety and Justice Construction,
equal to the enacted level and $32,370,000 above the budget re-
quest. Within this amount, the Committee includes $25,500,000 for
Facilities Replacement and New Construction, $4,494,000 for Em-
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ployee Housing, $9,372,000 for Facilities Improvement and Repair,
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$171,000 for Fire Safety Coordination, and $3,274,000 for Fire Pro-
tection.
Green Infrastructure.—Within amounts for Public Safety and
Justice Construction, the Committee continues to encourage Indian
Affairs in planning, design, and operations of buildings to reduce
costs, minimize environmental impacts, use renewable energy and
incorporate green infrastructure and the most current energy effi-
ciency codes and standards to the maximum extent practicable.
The Committee directs Indian Affairs to submit a report to the
Committee within 90 days of enactment of this Act describing how
Indian Affairs will incorporate these activities.
Eligible Facilities.—The Committee continues to hear from
Tribes that Indian Affairs considers funding made available for Fa-
cility Replacement/New Construction for public safety and justice
facilities as only available for detention facilities. The Committee
directs Indian Affairs to consider all public safety and justice facili-
ties as eligible for funding under this program and to include such
facilities in the master plan that the Committee has repeatedly di-
rected Indian Affairs to maintain. The Committee directs Indian
Affairs to provide the master plan to the Committee within 90 days
of enactment of this Act.
The Committee understands the demand for public safety and
construction funding remains high and the backlog to replace these
facilities has grown exponentially. The Committee is aware there
are many condemned facilities across the country including the
Hopi, White Mountain Apache, and San Carlos Apache detention
and justice facilities. For this reason, the Committee directs Indian
Affairs to report back within 90 days of enactment of this Act with
a comprehensive list of condemned facilities that need to be re-
placed.
Resources Management Construction.—The recommendation pro-
vides $71,408,000 for Resources Management Construction,
$150,000 above the enacted level and $35,189,000 above the budget
request. Within the amounts provided, the Committee includes the
following: $28,706,000 for Irrigation Project Construction,
$2,659,000 for Engineering and Supervision, $1,016,000 for Survey
and Design, $656,000 for Federal Power Compliance, and
$38,371,000 for Dam Projects. Within amounts provided for Dam
Projects, the Committee recommends $34,621,000 for Safety of
Dam Projects and $3,750,000 for Dam Maintenance.
Other Program Construction.—The recommendation includes
$14,599,000 for Other Program Construction, $77,000 above the en-
acted level and $1,500,000 above the budget request. Within funds
provided, the Committee includes $1,419,000 for Telecommuni-
cations Improvement and Repair, $3,919,000 for Facilities/Quarters
Improvement and Repair, and $9,261,000 for Construction Program
Management. Within Construction Program Management funds,
the Committee provides $3,281,000 for operation and maintenance
costs required by the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System
Act of 2000 (Pub. L. 105–382).
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INDIAN LAND AND WATER CLAIM SETTLEMENTS AND MISCELLANEOUS
PAYMENTS TO INDIANS
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $45,644,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 43,904,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 45,644,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... 0
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +1,740,000
The Committee recommends $45,644,000 for Indian Land and
Water Claim Settlements and Miscellaneous Payments to Indians,
equal to the enacted level and $1,740,000 above the budget request.
A detailed table of funding recommendations below the account
level is provided at the end of this report. The Committee directs
Indian Affairs to provide a list of land and water claim settlements
that will be paid in fiscal year 2022 at the same time the budget
request is submitted.
The Committee is aware that on January 31, 2020, the Chief
Judge of the Court of Federal Claims transmitted to the Clerk of
the U.S. House of Representatives the Report of the Hearing Offi-
cer and the Report of the Hearing Panel in the matter of Thomas
Charles Bear et al v. United States. After twenty years of litiga-
tion, the Quapaw Nation and the United States settled some trust-
related claims in the Court of Federal Claims. The Committee en-
courages Indian Affairs to work with the parties, the Committees
of jurisdiction, and the Office of Management and Budget to deter-
mine next steps.
INDIAN GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM ACCOUNT
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $11,779,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 931,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 11,797,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +18,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +10,866,000
The Committee recommends $11,797,000 for Indian Guaranteed
Loan Program Account, $18,000 above the enacted level and
$10,866,000 above the budget request.
BUREAU OF INDIAN EDUCATION
The Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) manages a school system
with 169 elementary and secondary schools and 14 dormitories pro-
viding educational services to 47,000 individual students, with an
Average Daily Membership of 41,000 students in 23 States. The
BIE also operates two post-secondary schools and provides oper-
ating grants for 29 Tribally controlled colleges and universities and
two Tribal technical colleges.
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $943,077,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 875,659,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 981,697,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +38,620,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +106,038,000
Operation of Indian Education Programs.—The recommendation
includes $981,697,000 for Operation of Indian Education Programs,
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$38,620,000 above the enacted level and $106,038,000 above the
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budget request. The Committee approves the proposed internal
transfers, includes fixed costs as requested and rejects all proposed
program reductions or eliminations. Additional details and instruc-
tions are included below and in the table at the end of this report.
All subactivities and program elements presented in the budget re-
quest submitted to Congress are continued at enacted. None of the
requested program changes are agreed to unless specifically ad-
dressed below. Recommended program changes, instructions, and
details follow below and in the table at the end of this report. Addi-
tional instructions are included in the front of this report.
In addition to funds provided in this bill, the Coronavirus Aid,
Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) (P.L. 116–136) au-
thorized $69,000,000 for Operation of Indian Education Programs
to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus, domestically or
internationally. The ongoing pandemic required schools to abruptly
end the school year early. Due to the lack of broadband, schools are
left struggling to provide distance learning. In addition, schools are
trying to determine how to provide education for the fall. The Com-
mittee expects BIE to provide guidance to all BIE-funded schools
on how to ensure education for the upcoming school year. BIE is
also encouraged to document the challenges BIE-funded schools
have experienced in order to determine future needs.
Tribal Priority Allocations.—The recommendation includes
$59,287,000 for BIE Tribal Priority Allocation (TPA) programs.
TPA programs give Tribes the opportunity to further Indian self-
determination by establishing their own priorities and reallocating
Federal funds among budget accounts.
Elementary and Secondary Programs (forward funded).—The
Committee recommends $619,983,000 for Elementary and Sec-
ondary Programs (forward funded), $23,090,000 above the enacted
level and $34,774,000 above the budget request. Within this
amount, $5,681,000 is provided for Indian Student Equalization
Program Adjustments, $96,000 above the budget request and
$192,000 above the enacted level; $58,295,000 is provided for Stu-
dent Transportation, $1,304,000 above the enacted level and
$1,182,000 above the budget request; and $83,567,000 is provided
for Tribal Grant Support Costs, as requested and $160,000 above
the enacted level.
Indian Student Equalization Program (ISEP).—The rec-
ommendation includes $431,325,000 for Indian Student Equali-
zation Program Formula Funds, $15,974,000 above the enacted
level and $21,736,000 above the budget request.
The Committee directs BIE to provide an analysis of ISEP funds
from fiscal year 2010 to fiscal year 2020 that details: The BIE pay
rate for teacher and counselor salaries; the Department of Defense
(DoD) pay rate for teacher and counselor salaries; the amount of
funding provided for teacher and counselor pay parity in annual
budget requests and actually provided with available funds; the
amount of annual funding spent on BIE-funded schools non-salary
expenses (including student services, safety, programming, and
other standard operations); the impact that any shortfall of ISEP
funds for required pay increases had on school services and pro-
gramming (if any); and a complete accounting of any amounts BIE-
funded schools may not have received because fixed costs increases
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that align with DoD teacher and counselor pay parity requirements
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were not included in annual budget requests. Upon completion of
BIE’s work, the Committee directs the Department of the Interior
(DOI) Office of Inspector General (OIG) to conduct a review and
verification of BIE’s analysis and submit the review to the Com-
mittee.
Education Program Enhancements.—The Committee provides
$14,599,000 for Education Program Enhancements, $296,000 above
the enacted level and $4,498,000 above the budget request. Within
amounts provided, the recommendation continues $4,000,000 for
Native language immersion grants at BIE and Tribally operated
schools provided in fiscal year 2020 for Native language immersion.
Tribal Education Departments.—The Committee rejects the pro-
posed elimination of Tribal Education Departments and instead,
recommends $5,000,000, $2,500,000 above the enacted level.
Early Childhood and Family Development.—The Committee rec-
ommends $21,516,000 for Early Childhood and Family Develop-
ment, $2,664,000 above the enacted level and $2,262,000 above the
budget request. The Family and Child Education (FACE) program
addresses the achievement gap by teaching skills needed to begin
school successfully to Native children up to five years of age who
are primarily located on rural Indian lands. The general program
increase will allow BIE to expand FACE to new sites and prepare
more Native students to enter kindergarten ready to learn. The
Committee directs Indian Affairs to submit a report within 90 days
of enactment of this Act on the number of new sites and additional
students served with the increased funds.
Post-Secondary Programs (forward funded).—The Committee rec-
ommends $110,919,000 for Post-Secondary Programs (forward
funded), $4,975,000 above the enacted level and $12,976,000 above
the budget request. The recommendation accepts the proposed in-
ternal transfers, as requested, and rejects all proposed program re-
ductions. In addition to funds provided in this bill, $20,000,000 of
the funds made available to BIE in the CARES Act was authorized
for Tribal colleges and universities to prevent, prepare for, and re-
spond to coronavirus, domestically or internationally.
Within funds provided, $26,258,000 is provided for Haskell and
Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute (SIPI), $2,510,000 above
the enacted level and $5,611,000 above the budget request;
$76,510,000 is provided for Tribal Colleges and Universities,
$2,228,000 above the enacted level and $6,728,000 above the budg-
et request; and $8,151,000 is provided for Tribal Technical Col-
leges, $237,000 above the enacted level and $637,000 above the
budget request.
Elementary and Secondary Programs.—The Committee rec-
ommends $158,555,000 for Elementary and Secondary Programs,
$1,917,000 above the enacted level and $15,078,000 above the
budget request. Within these amounts, $64,092,000 is provided for
Facilities Maintenance, $3,186,000 above the enacted level and
$3,343,000 above the budget request; and $556,000 is provided for
Juvenile Detention Center Education, $56,000 above the enacted
level and $53,000 above the budget request.
The Committee directs BIE to complete annual health and safety
inspections of all BIE system facilities and to publish quarterly up-
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dates on the status of such inspections.
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Facilities Operations.—The Committee recommends $70,673,000
for Facilities Operations, $4,224,000 below the enacted level and
$3,088,000 above the budget request. This amount reflects internal
transfers plus a general program increase of $2,000,000. In fiscal
year 2020, the Committee included $6,000,000 in Facilities Oper-
ations for the alternative financing pilot developed by the Depart-
ment to fund replacement school construction. For fiscal year 2021,
funds for alternative financing have been transferred to the Pay-
ment for Tribal Leases account.
Johnson O’Malley (TPA).—The Committee recommends
$23,234,000 for Johnson O’Malley (JOM) (TPA), $2,899,000 above
the enacted level and $8,594,000 above the budget request. In fiscal
year 2020, Congress provided $2,500,000 in one-time capacity
building funding. Given GAO’s recent report finding BIE does not
provide training to JOM contractors on administering the program,
the Committee continues these funds for fiscal year 2021. The
Committee expects BIE to report on training and capacity building
activities provided to contractors in fiscal year 2020 and the activi-
ties to be provided in fiscal year 2021 within 90 days of enactment
of this Act.
Further, GAO found that BIE does not have systematic processes
in place to conduct oversight of JOM programs. The Committee di-
rects Indian Affairs to develop the recommended processes and
timelines to ensure the JOM program operates effectively and effi-
ciently and to submit a report to the Committee every 120 days
from enactment of this Act on the progress being made towards
meeting GAO’s recommendations until the recommendations are
closed.
Post-Secondary Programs.—The Committee recommends
$42,495,000 for Post-Secondary Programs, $1,500,000 above the en-
acted level. The Committee rejects the proposed elimination of
scholarship programs and approves the proposed internal transfer,
as requested.
Within funds provided, $1,220,000 is provided for Tribal Colleges
and University Supplements (TPA), equal to the enacted level;
$34,833,000 is provided for Scholarships and Adult Education
(TPA), $500,000 above the enacted level; $3,492,000 is provided for
Special Higher Education Scholarships, $500,000 above the enacted
level; and $2,950,000 is provided for Science Post Graduate Schol-
arship Fund, $500,000 above the enacted level.
Education Management.—The recommendation includes
$49,745,000 for Education Management, $7,138,000 above the en-
acted level and 715,000 above the budget request. The Committee
includes internal transfers, as requested. Within amounts provided,
the Committee includes $34,364,000 for Education Program Man-
agement activities, $2,064,000 above the enacted level and
$678,000 above the budget request, and $15,381,000 for Education
Information Technology, $5,074,000 above the enacted level and
$37,000 above the budget request.
In fiscal year 2020, the Committee approved the establishment
of BIE as a bureau separate from BIA. The Committee expects BIE
to submit a quarterly report to the Committee on activities that
occur to separate BIE from BIA, including details on how addi-
tional funds are being used to strengthen and improve BIE’s capac-
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ity.
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In May 2020, GAO issued a report documenting deficiencies in
BIE’s provision of special education for children with disabilities.
GAO made seven recommendations with which BIE concurred. The
Committee directs BIE to provide a quarterly report to the Com-
mittee on steps taken to implement GAO’s recommendation. In ad-
dition, the Committee expects BIE to submit the workforce plan
that includes a strategy and timeframe for filling vacant staff posi-
tions as recommended by GAO, to the Committee within 90 days
of enactment of this Act. The submitted workforce plan should also
include an estimate of actual costs to implement the workforce
plan.
The Committee is encouraged by BIE’s efforts to expand
broadband at BIE-funded schools. To modernize its electronic
health record system, the Indian Health Service (IHS) is also ex-
panding broadband at some IHS-funded facilities. The Committee
directs BIE to coordinate its efforts with IHS to the extent possible
to avoid duplication and to build on each agency’s efforts.
BUREAU OF INDIAN EDUCATION CONSTRUCTION
.
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $248,257,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 68,885,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 249,277,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +1,020,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +180,392,000
The Committee recommends $249,277,000 for BIE Construction,
$1,020,000 above the enacted level and $180,392,000 above the
budget request. The Committee rejects the proposed program elimi-
nations and decreases. All subactivities and program elements pre-
sented in the budget estimate submitted to Congress are continued
at enacted levels and adjusted for internal transfers. None of the
requested program changes are agreed to unless specifically ad-
dressed below. Recommended program changes, instructions, and
details follow below and in the table at the end of this report. Addi-
tional instructions are included in the front of this report.
Within amounts provided, the Committee includes $115,504,000
for Replacement School Construction, equal to the enacted level;
$23,935,000 for Replacement Facility Construction, equal to the en-
acted level; $1,000,000 for Replacement/New Employee Housing,
$1,000,000 above the enacted level and equal to the budget request;
$13,581,000 for Employee Housing Repair, $3,000 above the en-
acted level and $8,515,000 above the budget request; and
$95,257,000 for Facilities Improvement and Repair, $17,000 above
the enacted level and $32,438,000 above the budget request.
Employee Housing.—The Committee includes funding for the pro-
posed Replacement/New Employee Housing program and includes
$1,000,000 for this purpose. The Committee directs BIE to provide
an assessment of need for replacement/new employee housing and
to provide a spend plan to the Committee within 90 days of enact-
ment of this Act.
Green Infrastructure.—The Committee continues to encourage
BIE to include green infrastructure in the replacement school con-
struction program and in the replacement facility program. This in-
cludes planning, design, and operations of buildings to reduce costs,
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minimize environmental impacts, use renewable energy and incor-
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69
porate green infrastructure and the most current energy efficiency
codes and standards to the maximum extent practicable. The Com-
mittee directs BIE to submit a report to the Committee within 90
days of enactment of this Act explaining how it proposes to incor-
porate green infrastructure and renewable energy in these projects.
The Committee recognizes the School Facilities and Construction
Negotiated Rulemaking Committee established under Public Law
107–110 for the equitable distribution of funds. Appropriations in
this bill for campus-wide replacement are limited to the 10 schools
selected via the rulemaking committee process and published by
Indian Affairs on April 5, 2016. Indian Affairs should submit a
similar list for facilities with the fiscal year 2021 budget request.
The Committee directs BIE to prepare a five-year spend plan for
replacement schools and replacement facilities based on the last
fiscal year enacted levels or the current year budget request,
whichever is highest, and submit the spend plans to the Committee
at the same time the budget is submitted to Congress. The Com-
mittee directs BIE to begin preparing the next projects for when
the current list is completed.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
The bill continues language limiting the expansion of grades and
schools in the BIE system which allow for the expansion of addi-
tional grades to schools that meet certain criteria. The intent of the
language is to prevent already limited funds from being spread fur-
ther to additional schools and grades. The intent is not to limit
Tribal flexibility at existing schools. Nothing in the bill is intended
to prohibit a Tribe from converting a Tribally-controlled school al-
ready in the BIE system to a charter school in accordance with
State and Federal law.
The bill continues language providing the Secretary with the au-
thority to approve satellite locations of existing BIE schools if a
Tribe can demonstrate that establishment of such locations would
provide comparable levels of education as are being offered at such
existing BIE schools, and would not significantly increase costs to
the Federal government. The intent is provided for this authority
to be exercised only in extraordinary circumstances to provide
Tribes with additional flexibility regarding where students are edu-
cated without compromising how they are educated, and to signifi-
cantly reduce the hardship and expense of transporting students
over long distances, all without unduly increasing costs that would
otherwise unfairly come at the expense of other schools in the BIE
system.
OFFICE OF THE SPECIAL TRUSTEE FOR AMERICAN INDIANS
FEDERAL TRUST PROGRAMS
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Congress has designated the Secretary of the Interior as the
trustee delegate with responsibility for approximately 55 million
surface acres of land, 57 million acres of subsurface mineral inter-
ests, and management of approximately $5.5 billion held in trust
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by the Federal government on behalf of American Indians, Alaska
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70
Natives, and federally recognized Indian Tribes. The Office of the
Special Trustee’s (OST) trust management of these assets includes
conserving, maintaining, accounting, investing, disbursing, and re-
porting to individual Indians and federally recognized Tribes and
Tribal organizations on asset transactions generated from sales,
leasing and other commercial activities on these lands.
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $0
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 0
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 108,399,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +108,399,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +108,399,000
The Committee recommends $108,399,000 for Federal trust pro-
grams, $108,399,000 above the enacted level and above the budget
request. Within amounts provided, the Committee includes:
$1,494,000 for Executive Direction and $106,905,000 for Program
Operations and Support. Of the funds provided for Program Oper-
ations and Support, $17,911,000 is for historical accounting. The
Committee does not include fixed costs and continues funding for
13 FTEs in Trust Operations. The Committee rejects the creation
of a new Bureau and proposed budget structure. A detailed table
of funding recommendations below the account level is provided at
the end of this report.
Executive Direction.—The recommendation includes the transfer
of $203,000, as requested as part of the rejected Bureau structure,
of 1 FTE to the Department’s consolidated ethics office under the
Office of the Solicitor. The Committee does not provide additional
funding for a new FTE in Executive Direction as requested in the
rejected Bureau structure.
Trust Operations.—The recommendation continues $4,028,000 for
13 FTEs in Field Operations proposed for elimination in the re-
jected Bureau structure. The Committee supports OST’s efforts to
digitize trust records and includes $2,669,000, for these efforts. The
Committee directs, OST to provide an estimate of the total amount
needed to digitize all trust records located in the Kansas repository
within 90 days of enactment of this Act.
The Committee does not approve the creation of a new Bureau.
Due to the ongoing pandemic, the Committee does not have ade-
quate information to evaluate this proposal. In fiscal year 2019, the
Committee approved moving OST under Indian Affairs. Going for-
ward the budget should reflect this move. The bill includes lan-
guage prohibiting any funds from being used to create a bureau.
In addition, it appears that OST has several duplicative adminis-
trative and other functions and activities with Indian Affairs. The
Committee expects Indian Affairs to provide the same administra-
tive services it provides to BIA and BIE to OST. Therefore, the
Committee directs OST to work with Indian Affairs to identify and
eliminate duplicative functions and activities. Indian Affairs and
OST are directed to submit a report to the Committee within 120
days of enactment of this Act on actions taken to consolidate activi-
ties under Indian Affairs.
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71
DEPARTMENTAL OFFICES
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
DEPARTMENTAL OPERATIONS
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $131,832,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 127,938,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 124,748,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... ¥7,084,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ ¥3,190,000
The Committee recommends $124,748,000 for the Office of the
Secretary, Departmental Operations appropriation. This amount is
$7,084,000 below the enacted level and $3,190,000 below the budg-
et request. Changes to the request include a reduction of
$8,190,000 in the Appraisal and Valuation Service Office (Federal
Lands) to account for the switch from discretionary to mandatory
funding with respect to the Land and Water Conservation Fund,
and an increase of $5,000,000 to be used to support the Public
Lands Corps through the distribution of funds to qualified youth
and conservation corps groups across the county. These funds may
be used by individual Corps groups to supplement administrative
costs that have not been provided for through the Payroll Protec-
tion Program or reimbursed through an executed agreement with
a land management agency. Maintaining viability of the Public
Lands Corps is an important function for both the federal agencies
that rely on them, as well as the thousands of youth and veterans
who are well served by the opportunities they provide.
The Committee notes that the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Eco-
nomic Security Act (CARES Act) (P. L. 116–136) included
$158,400,000 for the Office of the Secretary, as requested by the
administration. These funds were to be distributed by the Sec-
retary to the individual bureaus and offices for immediate needs in
response to the current public health emergency. The Secretary is
directed to report to the Committee on Appropriations on a month-
ly basis with details of transfers and expenditures.
Notification of Closure.—The Secretary, in cooperation with the
Forest Service, shall notify the Committee in advance of any pro-
posed project specifically intending to close an area to recreational
shooting, hunting, or fishing on a non-emergency basis for more
than 30 days.
Botanical Science Expertise.—The Committee is concerned by the
need to incorporate the perspective and knowledge of botanists in
land management and restoration decision making. Input from this
scientific discipline is necessary to the effective development of ap-
proaches that incorporate meaningful consideration of how best to
create thriving habitats, ameliorate the impact of invasive species,
and preserve lands for multiple use missions. Accordingly, the
Committee encourages the Secretary to establish a chief botanist in
each of the Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service, Bu-
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reau of Land Management and U.S. Geological Survey.
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72
INSULAR AFFAIRS
ASSISTANCE TO TERRITORIES
The Office of Insular Affairs (OIA) was established on August 4,
1995, through Secretarial Order No. 3191, which also abolished the
former Office of Territorial and International Affairs. OIA has ad-
ministrative responsibility for coordinating Federal policy in the
territories of American Samoa, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and
the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), and
oversight of Federal programs and funds in the freely associated
states of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), the Republic
of the Marshall Islands (RMI), and the Republic of Palau. The per-
manent and trust fund payments to the territories and the compact
nations provide substantial financial resources to these govern-
ments. During fiscal year 2004, financial arrangements for the
Compacts of Free Association with the FSM and the RMI were im-
plemented. These also included mandatory payments for certain ac-
tivities previously provided in discretionary appropriations as well
as Compact impact payments of $30,000,000 per year split among
Guam, CNMI, AS, and Hawaii.
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $102,881,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 81,090,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 111,297,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +8,416,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +30,207,000
The Committee recommends $111,297,000 for Assistance to Ter-
ritories, $8,416,000 above the enacted level and $30,207,000 above
the budget request. The Committee rejects the requested program
changes unless specifically addressed below. Recommended pro-
gram changes, instructions, and details follow below and in the
table at the end of this report.
Office of Insular Affairs.—The recommendation includes
$9,657,000 for the Office of Insular Affairs, $166,000 above the en-
acted level and $104,000 above the budget request.
Technical Assistance.—The recommendation includes $22,800,000
for Technical Assistance, $2,000,000 above the enacted level and
$8,129,000 above the request. The Committee recognizes that in-
sufficient infrastructure, limited resources, and a lack of technical
assistance have limited the ability of the Insular Areas to develop
a robust health information infrastructure. The recommendation
includes $2,000,000 to assist the Insular Areas, including the U.S.
Affiliated Pacific Islands (USAPI), plan and implement health in-
formation technologies, including electronic health records, health
information exchanges, and telehealth, as well as to establish
health data analytics warehouses and programs to improve clinical
care, population health, care coordination, and improve manage-
ment of health care costs.
Maintenance Assistance Fund.—The recommendation includes
$4,375,000 for Maintenance Assistance, equal to the enacted level
and $3,352,000 above the budget request.
Energizing Insular Communities.—The recommendation includes
$12,000,000 for Energizing Insular Communities (EIC), $5,750,000
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above the enacted level and $9,189,000 above the budget request.
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73
The Committee commends the Department for its efforts to work
with the Insular Areas to update and implement their energy ac-
tion plans. The Committee expects funds to be used in accordance
with 48 U.S.C 1492a to update and implement the energy action
plans of American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the North-
ern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands with the goals of
reducing reliance and expenditures on imported fuels, developing
and utilizing domestic energy sources, and improving the perform-
ance of energy infrastructure and overall energy efficiency in each
of these insular areas. The Committee directs the Department to
establish reporting requirements in EIC grants necessary to meet
the reporting requirements of 48 U.S.C 1492a.
American Samoa Operations Grants.—The Committee rec-
ommends $24,620,000 for American Samoa Operations, $500,000
above the enacted level and $3,091,000 above the budget request.
The Committee is concerned about the impact of the Coronavirus
on American Samoa, and rejects the reduction proposed in the
budget request. The recommendation includes a $500,000 increase
for general operations.
Biosecurity Report.—The Department is directed to include in its
annual budget submission an updated report describing the activi-
ties of the Department during the preceding fiscal year to imple-
ment the Regional Biosecurity Plan for Micronesia and Hawaii, as
developed jointly by the Department and other Federal and non-
Federal entities to prevent and control the introduction of invasive
species in the United States Pacific Region. The report shall also
include next steps and planned activities of the Department for fur-
ther implementation of the plan, including estimates of additional
funding to be used or needed for such next steps and planned ac-
tivities.
The Committee recognizes that the Office of Insular Affairs funds
important efforts to improve education, health, infrastructure, judi-
cial training, and economic sustainability in the Insular areas and
expects funds to continue to be awarded accordingly. Additionally,
the Department is directed to continue to award noncompetitive
technical assistance funds to support investments in civic education
programs for Insular Area students.
In addition, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security
Act (CARES Act) (P.L. 116–136) included $55,000,000 for the Office
of Insular Affairs to prevent, prepare for, and respond to
coronavirus, domestically or internationally.
COMPACT OF FREE ASSOCIATION
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $8,463,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 8,109,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 8,463,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 ........................................................................ 0
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................... +354,000
The Committee recommends $8,463,000 for Compact of Free As-
sociation, equal to the enacted level and $354,000 above the budget
request. The Committee rejects the requested program changes un-
less specifically addressed below. Recommended program changes,
instructions, and details follow below and in the table at the end
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of this report.
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74
Compact of Free Association.—Federal Services.—The Committee
recommends $7,813,000 for Federal Services, equal to the enacted
level and $5,177,000 above the budget request. The recommenda-
tion includes $5,000,000 as the second payment towards the
$20,000,000 requested by the Republic of the Marshall Islands in
September 2009, as authorized in section 111(d) of the Compact of
Free Association Act of 1986 (P.L. 99–239; 99 Stat. 1799; 48 USC
1911) and section 108(b) of the Compact of Free Association
Amendments Act of 2003 (P.L. 108–188; 117 Stat. 2755; 48 USC
1921g).
OFFICE OF THE SOLICITOR
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $66,816,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 86,813,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 86,813,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 ........................................................................ +19,997,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................... 0
The Committee recommends $86,813,000 for the Salaries and Ex-
penses appropriation. This amount is $19,997,000 above the en-
acted level and equal to the budget request. The sizeable increase
over the enacted level is attributable to the consolidation of bureau
ethics offices under the auspices of the Office of the Solicitor. The
funding increase is offset with internal transfers from the various
bureaus.
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $55,986,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 59,342,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 61,842,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 ........................................................................ +5,856,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................... +2,500,000
The Committee recommends $61,842,000 for salaries and ex-
penses of the Office of Inspector General, $5,856,000 above the en-
acted level and $2,500,000 above the budget request.
The recommendation provides $1,090,000 for fixed costs and in-
cludes the requested increases of $700,000 to hire dedicated staff
for the Indian Country school safety initiative and to conduct addi-
tional investigate work; $717,000 to hire auditors dedicated to re-
viewing information technology assets, acquisitions, and procure-
ments; $500,000 to hire investigators to focus on contract and grant
fraud investigations; and $349,000 for mission support to mod-
ernize critical information technology systems and infrastructure.
The recommendation also provides an additional $1,900,000 to cre-
ate a multi-tiered enterprise data analysis program to support au-
dits and investigations and $600,000 to hire experienced investiga-
tive attorneys for the Program Integrity Division to weave real-
time legal analysis on complex issues into investigations from their
onset and improve the timeliness of reports. The Committee under-
stands the Inspector General is interested in streamlining the
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budget structure to more efficiently and effectively utilize the re-
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75
sources provided to accomplish the mission and be consistent with
other Offices of Inspector General across the government. The
Committee directs the Inspector General to provide a proposal to
the Committee on consolidating budget lines as soon as practicable.
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES
Act) (P.L. 116–136) included a transfer of $1,000,000 from the Of-
fice of the Secretary to the Office of the Inspector General for over-
sight activities related to the implementation of programs, activi-
ties or projects to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus,
domestically or internationally.
DEPARTMENT WIDE PROGRAMS
WILDLAND FIRE
The Department’s Wildland Fire Management account supports
fire activities for the Bureau of Land Management, the National
Park Service, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and the
Bureau of Indian Affairs.
WILDLAND FIRE MANAGEMENT
(INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $952,338,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 1,003,090,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 991,479,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 ........................................................................ +39,141,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................... ¥11,611,000
The Committee recommends $991,479,000 for Wildland Fire
Management at the Department of the Interior to include funding
for fixed cost increases. The bill permits the transfer of $50,000,000
in base discretionary fire suppression funds between the Depart-
ment of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture. The de-
tailed allocation of funding by activity is included in the table at
the end of this report.
Wildland Fire Preparedness.—The Committee recommends
$338,030,000 for Wildland Fire Preparedness, an increase of
$5,246,000 above the enacted level and $30,038,000 below the
budget request. The Department should immediately notify the
Committees on Appropriations if it appears that funding shortfalls
may limit needed firefighting capacity. The Committee supports
the Department’s goal to convert more fire-fighters to full-time and
recognizes the benefits of this move such as increased capacity,
readiness, and resiliency. While this bill does not include the fund-
ing for this conversion, $1,000,000 is included within preparedness
to allow the Department to develop a conversion plan to inform the
fiscal year 2022 budget request.
Wildland Fire Suppression.—The Committee recommends
$383,657,000, for Wildland Fire Suppression, the same as the en-
acted level and the budget request. The recommended amount is
the fiscal year 2015 10-year average cost for wildland fire suppres-
sion which is required for the Committee to provide an additional
$310,000,000 in cap adjusted funding.
Fuels Management.—The Committee recommends $227,895,000
for the Fuels Management program, $33,895,000 above the enacted
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level and equal to the budget request.
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76
Burned Area Rehabilitation.—The Committee recommends
$20,470,000 for the Burned Area Rehabilitation program, equal to
the enacted level and the budget request.
The Committee notes that funding for Burned Area Rehabilita-
tion is meant to supplement emergency stabilization funding pro-
vided under suppression, not replace it.
Fire Facilities.—The Committee recommends $18,427,000 for
Fire Facilities, equal to the enacted level and $18,427,000 above
the request. The Committee rejects the proposal to fund fire facili-
ties through other accounts within the Department of the Interior.
WILDFIRE SUPPRESSION OPERATIONS RESERVE FUND
(INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $300,000,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 310,000,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 310,000,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 ........................................................................ +10,000,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................... 0
The bill includes $310,000,000 for the Wildfire Suppression Oper-
ations Reserve Fund, which is $10,000,000 above the enacted level
and equal to the budget request. The Consolidated Appropriations
Act, 2018 (P.L 115–141) included a budget cap adjustment for wild-
fire suppression costs and this additional funding is included for
fiscal year 2021. Of the additional $2,350,000,000 available for fire
suppression operations, $310,000,000 is provided to the Depart-
ment of the Interior and the remaining $2,040,000,000 is available
through a transfer from the Department of Agriculture (Forest
Service). The Committee provides these additional funds and au-
thorities to ensure that sufficient funds are available to protect
American homes, lands, and wildlife from catastrophic fires with-
out requiring a transfer of funds from the very activities that ad-
vance forest health and prevent wildland fires. The Committee ex-
pects the Department to use suppression funds judiciously and con-
tinue to work closely with the Office of Management and Budget
and the Forest Service to accurately account for expenditures and
recover costs.
CENTRAL HAZARDOUS MATERIALS FUND
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $22,010,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 1,874,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 10,010,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 ........................................................................ ¥12,000,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................... +8,136,000
The Committee recommends $10,010,000 for the Central Haz-
ardous Materials Fund appropriation. This amount is equal to the
enacted level, after accounting for the elimination of a one-time
competitive grant program, and $8,136,000 above the budget re-
quest.
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NATURAL RESOURCE DAMAGE ASSESSMENT AND RESTORATION
NATURAL RESOURCE DAMAGE ASSESSMENT FUND
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $7,767,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 4,709,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 7,767,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 ........................................................................ 0
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................... +3,058,000
The Committee recommends $7,767,000 for the Natural Resource
Damage Assessment Fund appropriation, equal to the enacted level
and $3,058,000 above the budget request. Details of the rec-
ommendation by activity are contained in the table at the back of
this report.
WORKING CAPITAL FUND
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $55,735,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 78,513,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 64,798,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 ........................................................................ 9,063,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................... ¥13,715,000
The Committee recommends $64,798,000 for the Working Capital
Fund appropriation, $9,063,000 above the enacted level and
$13,715,000 below the budget request. The recommendation adopts
the proposed increases for cybersecurity and FBMS activities.
Within available funds the Committee directs that $1,200,000 be
available for the Invasive Species Council.
OFFICE OF NATURAL RESOURCES REVENUE
NATURAL RESOURCES REVENUE
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $147,330,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 148,474,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 148,474,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... 1,144,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ 0
The Committee recommends $148,474,000 for the Office of Nat-
ural Resource Revenue. This amount is $1,144,000 above the en-
acted level and equal to the request.
Distribution of GOMESA revenues.—The Committee continues its
annual direction to the Office to distribute revenues from Gulf of
Mexico operations in a manner consistent with current law, includ-
ing the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act of 2006 (P.L. 109–432),
as amended.
GENERAL PROVISIONS, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
(INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)
Section 101 continues a provision providing for emergency trans-
fer authority (intra-bureau) with the approval of the Secretary.
Section 102 continues a provision providing for emergency trans-
fer authority (Department-wide) with the approval of the Secretary.
Section 103 continues a provision providing for the use of appro-
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priations for certain services.
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Section 104 continues a provision permitting the transfer of
funds between the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Bureau of Indian
Education, and the Office of the Special Trustee for American Indi-
ans and includes a notification requirement.
Section 105 continues a provision permitting the redistribution of
Tribal priority allocation and Tribal base funds to alleviate funding
inequities.
Section 106 continues a provision authorizing the acquisition of
lands for the purpose of operating and maintaining facilities that
support visitors to Ellis, Governors, and Liberty Islands, NJ and
NY.
Section 107 continues a provision allowing Outer Continental
Shelf inspection fees to be collected by the Secretary of the Interior.
Section 108 continues a provision allowing the Bureau of Land
Management (BLM) to enter into long-term cooperative agreements
for long-term care and maintenance of excess wild horses and bur-
ros on private land.
Section 109 continues a provision dealing with the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service’s responsibilities for mass marking of salmonid
stocks.
Section 110 continues a provision allowing the Bureau of Indian
Affairs and Bureau of Indian Education to more efficiently and ef-
fectively perform reimbursable work.
Section 111 continues bill language establishing a Department of
the Interior Experienced Services Program.
Section 112 requires funds to be available for obligation and ex-
penditure not later than 60 days after the date of enactment.
Section 113 addresses National Heritage Areas.
Section 114 continues authorization for the Secretary to transfer
funds in conformity with the reprogramming requirements between
the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Bureau of Indian Education
in order to separate the accounts.
Section 115 provides funding for the Payments in Lieu of Taxes
(PILT) program.
Section 116 directs the public disclosure of waivers from safety
regulations for operators within the Outer Continental Shelf.
Section 117 restricts the use of funds for certain Bureau of Land
Management oil and gas lease sales to ensure minimum bonus bid
amounts.
Section 118 classifies receipts deposited into Medical Services
Fund.
Section 119 limits the use of funds for certain Outer Continental
Shelf activities to lease sales that are contained in the currently
approved 2017 2022 plan.
Section 120 authorizes Tribally controlled schools access to inter-
agency motor vehicles in same manner as if performing activities
under the Indian Self Determination and Education Assistance Act.
Section 121 allows the National Park Service to convey lands for
purposes of transportation and recreation for a specific project.
Section 122 prohibits the Secretary from using any funds to cre-
ate a Bureau to perform the activities of the Office of the Special
Trustee for American Indians.
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TITLE II—ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was created by Re-
organization Plan No. 3 of 1970, which consolidated nine programs
from five different agencies and departments. Major EPA programs
include air and water quality, drinking water, hazardous waste, re-
search, pesticides, radiation, toxic substances, enforcement and
compliance assurance, pollution prevention, Inland oil spill, Super-
fund, Brownfields, and the Leaking Underground Storage Tank
program. In addition, EPA provides Federal assistance for waste-
water treatment, sewer overflow control, drinking water facilities,
other water infrastructure projects, and diesel emission reduction
projects. The Agency is responsible for conducting research and de-
velopment, establishing environmental standards through the use
of health science, risk assessment, and cost-benefit, monitoring pol-
lution conditions, seeking compliance through enforcement actions,
managing audits and investigations, and providing technical assist-
ance and grant support to States and Tribes, which in many cases
are delegated authority for much of program implementation.
Under existing statutory authority, the Agency contributes to spe-
cific homeland security efforts and participates in international en-
vironmental activities.
Among the statutes for which the Environmental Protection
Agency has sole or significant oversight responsibilities are:
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, as amended.
Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, as amended.
Toxic Substances Control Act, as amended.
Clean Water Act [Federal Water Pollution Control Act], as
amended.
Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, as amended.
Ocean Dumping Act [Marine Protection, Research, and Sanc-
tuaries Act of 1972], as amended.
Oil Pollution Act of 1990.
Safe Drinking Water Act [Public Health Service Act (Title XIV)],
as amended.
Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended by the Resource Conserva-
tion and Recovery Act.
Clean Air Act, as amended.
Great Lakes Legacy Act of 2002.
Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Act of 2002.
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Li-
ability Act of 1980 (CERCLA), as amended.
Small Business Liability Relief and Brownfields Revitalization
Act of 2002 (amending CERCLA).
Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986.
Pollution Prevention Act of 1990.
Pollution Prosecution Act of 1990.
Pesticide Registration Improvement Act of 2003.
Energy Policy Act of 2005.
Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007.
For fiscal year 2021, the Committee recommends $9,375,691,000
for the Environmental Protection Agency, $318,290,000 above the
enacted level, and $2,671,620,000 above the budget request. Unless
explicitly noted otherwise in this report, the Committee rejects pro-
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posed reductions, eliminations, streamlinings, transfers, or consoli-
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dations in the request. Comparisons to the budget request and en-
acted levels are shown by account in the table at the end of this
report.
Reprogramming.—In general, the Agency shall follow the Re-
programming Guidelines described in the front matter of this re-
port. Additionally, the Agency is barred from relocating, closing, or
consolidating any office, laboratory, or facility. Further, the Agency
may not use any amount of de-obligated funds to initiate a new
program, office, or initiative without the prior approval of the Com-
mittee. Not more than 45 days after the end of each quarter, the
Agency shall report all reprogrammings between program projects,
or the more detailed program activity levels specified in this report,
including those below the levels requiring prior approval from the
Committee, and shall include cumulative totals for each budget ac-
tivity or budget line item.
Congressional Budget Justification.—The Committee directs the
Agency to include in future justifications the following items: (1) a
comprehensive index of programs and activities within the program
projects; (2) the requested bill language, with changes from the en-
acted language highlighted, at the beginning of each account sec-
tion; (3) a justification for every program/project, including those
proposed for elimination; (4) a comprehensive, detailed explanation
of all changes within a program project; (5) a table showing consoli-
dations, realignments or other transfers of resources and personnel
from one program project to another such that the outgoing and re-
ceiving program projects offset and clearly illustrate a transfer of
resources; (6) a table listing the budgets and FTE by major office
within each National Program Management area, itemized by
headquarter and each regional office, with pay/non-pay breakouts;
(7) separate targets for onsite inspections and offsite compliance
monitoring activities, and separate target and actuals data for on-
site and offsite compliance monitoring activities for the previous
five fiscal years; (8) requested enforcement travel budget, and
budgeted and actual enforcement travel spending for the previous
five fiscal years; (9) allocations for each component of funding for
environmental justice programs. Further, if EPA is proposing to
change State allocation formulas for the distribution of appro-
priated funds, then EPA should include such proposals in the con-
gressional justification.
Operating Plan.—Within 30 days of enactment, the Agency is di-
rected to submit to the House and Senate Committees on Appro-
priations its annual operating plan for fiscal year 2021. The oper-
ating plan shall adhere to the program area levels, and where ap-
plicable, the program project levels, specified within this report.
For program project levels not otherwise specified herein, the oper-
ating plan should detail how the Agency plans to allocate funds at
the program project level. For each program project, the operating
plan should include actuals for the preceding fiscal year, as well as
the amounts of any expired funds.
The operating plan shall also include a table listing the enacted
budgets and target FTE by major office within each National Pro-
gram Management area, itemized by headquarter and each re-
gional office, with pay/non-pay breakouts. Further, the budgets of
each major office should be itemized to indicate the source of funds
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for each major office by program project level.
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The operating plan should include detailed allocations for each
component of funding for environmental justice programs, includ-
ing the Environmental Justice Small Grants program, the Environ-
mental Justice Collaborative Problem-Solving Cooperative Agree-
ment Program, and the Interagency Federal Working Group on En-
vironmental Justice.
Workforce and Staffing Plans.—The Committee is disappointed
that for fiscal year 2020, the Agency made no adjustments in FTE
targets for program offices, in spite of substantial changes in ap-
propriated funds and Congressional directives to set FTE targets in
line with enacted levels. While the Committee recognizes some of
the unique challenges that the ongoing coronavirus pandemic poses
to the hiring and onboarding of staff, the Committee is concerned
by the Agency’s progress towards achieving its staffing targets,
which suggest that the Agency will miss its staffing target for the
second year in the row.
The explanatory statement accompanying the fiscal year 2020
appropriations included directions for the Agency to develop work-
force and staffing plans to achieve the Agency’s FTE targets in fis-
cal year 2020. For fiscal year 2021, the Committee expects the
Agency to submit as part of its operating plan, staffing targets by
National Program Management area, with separate staffing targets
for headquarters and each regional office within each Program, in
line with the Agency’s enacted appropriation. The Committee ex-
pects the Agency to continue to develop workforce and staffing
plans to achieve the staffing targets submitted with the operating
plan, and directs the Agency to submit its fiscal year 2021 work-
force and staffing plans to the Committee not more than 45 days
after the submission of the Agency’s operating plan. Further, not
later than 45 days after the end of each quarter, the Agency shall
submit data on the number of FTE employed by the Agency in the
same format as the fiscal year 2021 FTE target data was sub-
mitted. The Committee expects quarterly briefings on the Agency’s
progress in achieving its staffing targets.
Oversight.—The Committee is dismayed by the Agency’s dis-
regard of the Committee’s information requests and oversight ef-
forts. The Agency is reminded that the Committee expects the
Agency to cooperate in a timely and complete manner with all que-
ries by the Committee and other duly authorized oversight bodies,
including the Government Accountability Office and the Office of
Inspector General.
Compliance and Enforcement Policy.—The Committee believes
that vigorous and credible enforcement of environmental laws is an
essential part of the Agency’s mission to protect public health.
These efforts both directly reduce pollution and also deter non-com-
pliance by regulated entities. While states with delegated programs
carry out the bulk of enforcement activities, more complex cases
generally require the leadership, expertise, and resources of the
federal government. States and Tribes cannot fill the void in the
absence of federal enforcement.
That is why the Committee is greatly disturbed by the trends in
compliance and enforcement at the Agency. As noted in Office of
Inspector General Report No. 20–P–0131, both compliance and en-
forcement actions taken by the Agency have seen a steady decline
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since 2006, with 4 of 6 key measures tracked in the report declin-
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ing by over 50 percent, while Agency budgets and staffing have
also declined over the same period by roughly 20 percent. These
trends suggest the decline is a combination of a lack of necessary
resources and enforcement policy decisions by managers within the
Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance (OECA), such as
the shift of the Agency’s enforcement and compliance strategy to-
wards a compliance assistance model.
In fiscal year 2020, Congress increased programmatic funding for
compliance and enforcement by over $18 million, the first increase
in nearly a decade. For fiscal year 2021, the Committee is once
again increasing funding resources, spread across multiple appro-
priations accounts. The Committee directs that these resources be
used to increase the number of OECA staff across the Agency.
The Agency has greatly resisted efforts by this Committee to con-
duct oversight of the Agency’s enforcement agenda. The Committee
expects the Agency to comply with all oversight efforts, including
those conducted by the Congress, Government Accountability Of-
fice, Office of Inspector General, or other duly authorized body.
Finally, the Committee is disappointed in the Agency’s guidance
titled ‘‘COVID–19 Implications for EPA’s Enforcement and Compli-
ance Assurance Program’’ issued on March 26, 2020. While the
Committee believes that the use of some enforcement discretion
during the period of the national emergency is appropriate, the
policies put into place are far in excess of what is appropriate and
necessary to protect the health and safety of regulators, regulated
parties, or the public. The Committee expects the Agency to modify
its guidance to (1) have a discrete end date, and articulate what
criteria the Agency will use in determining whether to extend its
enforcement discretion period, (2) require prior notification wher-
ever possible if facility operations create risk or pose imminent
threat to human health or the environment, (3) increase trans-
parency into the use of the discretion by the Agency, and (4) and
modify its policy to require affirmative reporting by facilities that
are seeking enforcement discretion. The Agency should also clarify
what qualifies as causation for non-compliance, explain standards
for retaining information, and standardize a reporting template
that facilities should use to report non-compliance. The Committee
further expects that the Agency will follow these guidelines in any
future use of enforcement discretion by the Agency during the
coronavirus emergency or other emergencies where enforcement
discretion is warranted.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
The Science and Technology (S&T) account funds all Environ-
mental Protection Agency research (including Superfund research
activities paid with funds transferred into this account from the
Hazardous Substance Superfund account). This account includes
programs carried out through grants, contracts, and cooperative
agreements, cooperative research and development agreements,
and interagency agreements, with other Federal agencies, States,
universities, nonprofit organizations, and private business, as well
as in-house research. It also funds personnel compensation and
benefits, travel, supplies and operating expenses, including rent,
utilities and security, for all Agency research. Research addresses
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ronmental media and encompasses both long-term basic and near-
term applied research to provide the scientific knowledge and tech-
nologies necessary for preventing, regulating, and abating pollu-
tion, and to anticipate emerging environmental issues.
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $716,449,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 484,733,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 745,345,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +28,896,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +260,612,000
The Committee recommends $745,345,000 for Science and Tech-
nology, $28,896,000 above the enacted level and $260,612,000
above the budget request. The Committee recommends that
$30,755,000 be paid to this account from the Hazardous Substance
Superfund account for ongoing research activities.
The Committee notes that in addition to the $716,449,000 in reg-
ular appropriations provided in fiscal year 2020, the S&T account
received an additional $2,250,000 in emergency supplemental ap-
propriations as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic
Security Act (CARES Act) (P.L. 116–136) to prevent, prepare for,
and respond to coronavirus domestically and internationally.
A detailed table of funding recommendations below the account
level is provided at the end of this report, and the Committee pro-
vides the following additional detail by program area:
Clean Air.—The Committee recommends $123,539,000,
$7,475,000 above the enacted level and $33,156,000 above the re-
quest. Of the amount provided, $8,404,000 is for Federal Support
for Air Quality Management.
The Committee provides $99,954,000 for Federal Vehicles and
Fuels Standards Certification. The bill includes an Administrative
Provision directing the Administrator to act within 90 days of en-
actment of this Act on Electric Pathways II applications that have
been pending for more than one year. The bill also requires that
not less than $400,000 to be used for administrative expenses asso-
ciated with the review of registration applications to participate in
the Renewable Fuels Pathway II program. The Committee directs
the Agency to update available fuel emissions life-cycle modeling
and data and to hire additional FTE within the Office of Transpor-
tation and Air Quality, which are necessary to support the Agency’s
work on fuels.
The Committee is aware that the Agency has begun the Cleaner
Trucks Initiative regulatory development process to update and
tighten the nearly 20-year-old standard for reducing heavy-duty
truck emissions of ozone- and particulate matter-forming nitrogen
oxides (NOx). This effort is critical to helping areas achieve and
maintain attainment of the national ambient air quality standards
for ozone and Particulate Matter-2.5 (PM–2.5) on schedule. The
Committee urges the Agency to develop a final rule that minimizes
NOx emissions from heavy-duty vehicles as quickly as possible to
assist serious, severe, and extreme ozone nonattainment areas and
others to rapidly reduce this segment of their pollution inventories.
The Committee expects the Agency to work cooperatively with
states and local air pollution control bodies to ensure the final rule
supports these NOx control needs and efforts. The Committee ex-
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pects the final rule to accelerate the deployment of cost-effective
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control technologies available now while also providing clear regu-
latory direction to allow for the continuing development of pollution
reduction technologies for use in heavy duty vehicles.
Enforcement.—The Committee recommends $14,500,000,
$908,000 above the enacted level and $2,777,000 above the request.
The Agency is directed to use the increase provided to support the
National Enforcement and Investigations Center, to increase its
field inspection and sampling capabilities, and to continue to offer
technical support to state and tribal partners for their environ-
mental enforcement efforts.
Homeland Security.—The Committee recommends $35,483,000,
$2,394,000 above the enacted level and $1,709,000 above the re-
quest. The Committee provides $9,441,000 for Critical Infrastruc-
ture Protection, and increases Preparedness, Response, and Recov-
ery to $25,542,000, a $2,338,000 increase above the enacted level.
Funding in this program area supports the Agency’s work to en-
sure the security and continuity of operations of the water sector.
While much emphasis has been placed on physical and cybersecu-
rity needs, the coronavirus pandemic has highlighted the need to
also ensure that a sufficient number of trained personnel are avail-
able at all times to operate these critical systems. The Agency is
directed to brief the Committee on its strategies in this regard.
Indoor Air and Radiation.—The Committee recommends
$5,149,000, equal to the enacted level and $65,000 below the re-
quest. The Committee rejects the proposed eliminations and reduc-
tions within this program area.
Operations and Administration.—The Committee recommends
$67,908,000, $2,536,000 above the enacted level and equal to the
request. This increase is provided to support necessary facilities
improvements, equipment upgrades, and maintenance and oper-
ating costs. None of these funds may be used to relocate, close, or
consolidate any office, laboratory, or facility.
Research: Air and Energy.—The Committee recommends
$98,000,000, $3,504,000 above the enacted level and $64,457,000
above the request. The Committee directs the Agency to apply
$504,000 of the increase to support the Agency’s ongoing research
efforts as part of the Global Change Research Program, which de-
livers actionable science that informs local, state, and national deci-
sions in responding to the expected impacts from climate change.
The Committee provides an additional $1,000,000 to support addi-
tional research needs on PFAS. The Committee rejects the budget
request’s proposals to streamline and refocus research and directs
the Agency to continue its current research in those important
areas with the resources provided.
The Committee provides $3,700,000 to continue supporting year
4 of the study under the heading ‘‘Partnership Research’’ as out-
lined in the explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 115–
141. This jointly funded, multi-year government-industry research
initiative should be used to produce credible science of national
scope, including periodic review and tracking of existing exposure
and health studies already underway, and continuation of research
initiated under this section. The Agency is encouraged to submit a
report updating the Committees on the implementation of this
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partnership within 90 days of enactment of this Act.
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Research: Chemical Safety and Sustainability.—The Committee
recommends $130,769,000, $4,501,000 above the enacted level and
$39,123,000 above the request. The Committee directs the Agency
to fund the computational toxicology and endocrine disruptor pro-
grams at the enacted levels. The Committee provides $1,500,000 in
additional resources to help support research needs on PFAS. The
Committee further directs that not less than $1,500,000 of the in-
crease in this program area be applied to the Health and Environ-
mental Risk Assessment program project (previously Human
Health and Risk Assessment). The Committee rejects the budget
request’s proposals to streamline and refocus research and directs
the Agency to continue its current research in those important
areas with the resources provided.
Research: National Priorities.—The bill provides $7,000,000,
$1,000,000 above the enacted level and $7,000,000 above the re-
quest. The Committee directs that these funds be used for extra-
mural research grants, independent of the Science to Achieve Re-
sults (STAR) grant program, to fund high-priority water quality
and availability research by not-for-profit organizations who often
partner with the Agency. Of the funds provided, not less than
$1,000,000 should be for research related to coronavirus. Because
these grants are independent of the STAR grant program, the
Agency should strive to award grants in as large an amount as is
possible to achieve the most scientifically significant research.
Funds shall be awarded competitively with priority given to part-
ners proposing research of national scope and who provide a 25
percent match. The Agency is directed to allocate funds to grantees
within 180 days of enactment of this Act.
Research: Safe and Sustainable Water Resources.—The Com-
mittee recommends $114,500,000, $3,610,000 above the enacted
level and $35,552,000 above the request. The Committee provides
$1,000,000 in additional resources to help support research needs
on PFAS, including in agricultural settings. The Committee rejects
the budget request’s proposals to streamline and refocus research
and directs the Agency to continue its current research in those im-
portant areas with the resources provided. Additionally, the Com-
mittee directs that up to $2,000,000 be used to award grants under
section 2007 of America’s Water Infrastructure Act (P.L. 115–270).
Research: Sustainable and Healthy Communities.—The Com-
mittee recommends $135,500,000, $3,023,000 above the enacted
level and $76,903,000 above the request. The Committee provides
$1,500,000 in additional resources to help support research needs
on PFAS. The Committee rejects the budget request’s proposals to
streamline and refocus research and directs the Agency to continue
its current research in those important areas with the resources
provided.
Additional Guidance.—The Committee includes the following ad-
ditional guidance with respect to funding provided under this ac-
count:
Coronavirus Health Outcomes and Links to Pollution.—The Com-
mittee is aware of several preliminary investigations linking air
pollution with increased transmission and increased mortality and
morbidity in patients with coronavirus infections. There is also con-
cern that exposure to other pollutants or toxicants might increase
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the severity of adverse health outcomes for individuals with
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coronavirus. These concerns are heightened for communities of
color, which have seen disproportionate mortality and morbidity
rates from coronavirus infections, and experience greater pollution
burdens.
The Committee directs that not less than $2,500,000 of intra-
mural research funding be used to conduct research on the nexus
between pollutant exposures and health outcomes in coronavirus
patients. Of this, not less than $1,250,000 should be used to inves-
tigate links between air pollution and the transmission and health
outcomes associated with coronavirus and other infectious diseases.
As the Agency formulates its research plan, the Committee urges
the Office of Research and Development to coordinate its work with
the Office of Environmental Justice.
Estimating Air Emissions from Animal Operations.—The Com-
mittee is aware of the Agency’s ongoing work developing emission
estimating methodologies for Animal Feeding Operations (AFOs),
with a timeline for the release of draft emission estimating meth-
odologies through 2020 and 2021. The Committee supports the
Agency’s efforts to develop accurate, robust, and accessible models
for estimating these emissions by livestock type and pollutant and
urges the Agency to prioritize these efforts so that these methodolo-
gies can be finalized as quickly as possible.
Additionally, the Committee directs the Agency to conduct a cu-
mulative impacts study to better understand the health effects, air
quality impacts, and water quality impacts of lagoon and spray-
field waste management systems on communities living near swine
and dairy farms. The study should also investigate methods to
mitigate these impacts, including through the use of biodigesters
and methane recapture systems on animal waste lagoons. The
Agency shall submit this study to Committee not later than 180
days after enactment of this Act.
Harmful Algal Blooms.—The Committee recognizes the increas-
ing threats many communities face from harmful algal blooms
(HABs), both in freshwater and coastal ecosystems. The Committee
encourages the Agency to conduct and support research that pro-
motes scientific progress towards preventing and controlling HABs,
including research to: (1) develop methods to monitor, characterize,
and predict HABs for early action; (2) identify and evaluate exist-
ing excess nutrient prevention and treatment technologies; (3) iden-
tify emerging nutrient treatment technologies capable of being
scaled up and to evolve those technologies; and (4) develop best
management practices to help both rural and urban communities
reduce excess nutrients in their watersheds. Additionally,
$6,000,000 is made available to investigate adverse health effects
from exposure to HABs and cyanobacteria toxins and to develop
methods to monitor, predict, and characterize blooms to allow for
early action.
Maintaining IRIS Program Integrity.—The Committee remains
deeply concerned that the Agency has been ignoring Congressional
directives and inappropriately assigning resources provided for the
Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) to support work in the
Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics. In the fiscal year 2021,
The Committee expects additional resources to be made available
to the IRIS program as directed above, and that the program con-
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mittee expects that workforce costs for IRIS staff who have been
detailed to other programs or to other agencies will be borne by the
hosting program or agency.
Additionally, to ensure a neutral, systematic, and independent
evaluation of the science underlying its decisions, the Agency is di-
rected to utilize the Office of Research and Development to develop
the hazard identification and dose-response portions of all Agency
risk assessments. The Agency may realign FTE to the Office of Re-
search and Development as necessary.
Operation of Aircraft.—The Committee is aware of the value of
using aircraft in research and development activities, and has pro-
vided authority within this account for the Agency to use aircraft
to assist in carrying out its research and testing mission in support
of environmental protection.
Public Access to Agency Research.—The Committee commends
the Agency on issuing its ‘‘Plan to Increase Access to Results of
EPA Funded Scientific Research’’ on November 29, 2016. The Com-
mittee urges the Agency to continue its efforts towards full imple-
mentation of the plan and encourages the Agency to include up-
dates on progress in future budget requests.
STAR Grants.—The Committee provides funds to continue the
Science to Achieve Results (STAR) program and directs that not
less than $30,000,000 be allocated for this program, a $1,400,000
increase above the fiscal year 2020 enacted level of $28,600,000.
The Agency is directed to reestablish its Graduate Fellowship pro-
gram.
The Committee encourages the STAR program to continue re-
search on how green stormwater infrastructure can be used to re-
duce water-borne pollution entering large estuaries in which
stormwater is a large source of pollution.
Slash and Precommercial Thinnings.—The Committee is aware
of the interest in using low-grade and low-value forest biomass as
a feedstock for development of alternative fuels. The Agency is di-
rected to brief the Committee on its efforts to engage with other
federal agencies, states, private landowners, and stakeholders to
create markets for low-grade and low-value wood.
Water Distribution Systems.—The Agency is encouraged to
prioritize deployment of smart infrastructure solutions such as dis-
tribution network leak detection, pressure monitoring, and sanitary
and combined sewer monitoring technologies during upgrades to
water and wastewater systems to optimize water delivery perform-
ance, reduce energy usage, limit water waste in distribution sys-
tems, and enhance modeling of sewer collection networks. These so-
lutions will help improve operations, maintenance, and capital ex-
penditure in planning and budgeting, and increase spatial and tem-
poral monitoring data available on U.S. water quality and quantity.
Water Security Test Bed.—Both for fiscal year 2021 and in future
budget requests, the Committee encourages the Agency to include
adequate funding for advancing full scale applied research and
testing capabilities to address threats to drinking water and drink-
ing water infrastructure, including weatherization equipment,
SCADA control systems, and water tanks for full year operating ca-
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pabilities at Water Security Test Bed facilities.
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ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS AND MANAGEMENT
The Environmental Programs and Management (EPM) account
encompasses a broad range of abatement, prevention, enforcement,
and compliance activities, and personnel compensation, benefits,
travel, and expenses for all programs of the Agency except Science
and Technology, Hazardous Substance Superfund, Leaking Under-
ground Storage Tank Trust Fund, Inland Oil Spill Programs, and
the Office of Inspector General.
Abatement, prevention, and compliance activities include setting
environmental standards, issuing permits, monitoring emissions
and ambient conditions and providing technical and legal assist-
ance toward enforcement, compliance, and oversight. For many en-
vironmental programs, States and Tribes are directly responsible
for actual operation of the various environmental programs, and
the Agency’s activities include, providing support and assistance
and conducting oversight.
In addition to program costs, this account funds administrative
costs associated with the operating programs of the Agency, includ-
ing support for executive direction, policy oversight, grants and re-
sources management, general office and building services for pro-
gram operations, and direct implementation of Agency environ-
mental programs for headquarters, the ten EPA regional offices,
and all non-research field operations.
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $2,663,356,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 2,282,224,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 2,846,676,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +183,320,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +564,452,000
The Committee recommends $2,846,676,000 for Environmental
Programs and Management, $183,320,000 above the enacted level
and $564,452,000 above the budget request.
The Committee notes that in addition to the $2,663,356,000 in
regular appropriations provided in fiscal year 2020, the EPM ac-
count received an additional $3,910,000 in emergency supplemental
appropriations as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Eco-
nomic Security Act (CARES Act) (P.L. 116–136) to prevent, prepare
for, and respond to coronavirus domestically and internationally.
A detailed table of funding recommendations below the account
level is provided at the end of this report, and the Committee pro-
vides the following additional detail by program area:
Clean Air.—The Committee recommends $300,037,000,
$26,929,000 above the enacted level and $136,235,000 above the re-
quest. The recommendation includes $100,572,000 for the Atmos-
pheric Protection program project and increases funding for Fed-
eral Support for Air Quality to $149,734,000. The Committee re-
jects the proposed termination of voluntary programs such as Nat-
ural GasSTAR, AgSTAR, and other partnership programs where
the Agency works collaboratively with non-governmental entities to
identify beneficial methods to reduce emissions, pollution, and in-
crease efficiency. The Committee provides $22,000,000 for Federal
Stationary Source Regulation. Finally, the Committee directs that
funding for Stratospheric Ozone program projects be maintained at
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not less than the enacted levels, including $8,711,000 to assist with
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the international phase-out of ozone depleting substances under
the Montreal Protocol.
The Committee notes that the Clean Air Act requires certain
periodic reporting to Congress on acid rain program emissions, and
for the past several years the Agency has prepared Power Sector
Program Progress Reports covering implementation of the Acid
Rain Program, Mercury and Air Toxics Standards, and Cross-State
Air Pollution Rule. The Committee directs the Agency to continue
publishing these reports on an annual basis, as expeditiously as
possible. Additional resources have been provided both within EPM
and S&T to support programmatic work in this area, including
timely preparation of these reports.
ENERGY STAR.—The Committee continues to support the EN-
ERGY STAR program and rejects the proposed shift to a fee-based
funding mechanism. The Committee provides $42,000,000 for its
continued operation. With this increase in funding, the Committee
expects the Agency to prioritize the following priority areas: in-
creased technical support, data collection and data analysis in the
Portfolio Manager program, particularly with state and local part-
ners, including school systems; increased promotion of the EN-
ERGY STAR Most Efficient program; the ENERGY STAR for ten-
ants program; and increased capacity in the products division. The
Committee expects the program to accomplish these objectives
through increased FTEs and contracted services. Further, the Com-
mittee supports the Agency’s efforts to reexamine ENERGY STAR
guidelines and standard operating procedures to ensure trans-
parency, predictability, and consistency for all stakeholders.
Compliance.—The Committee recommends $104,000,000 for com-
pliance activities, $2,335,000 above the enacted level and
$8,351,000 above the request. The Committee is extremely con-
cerned by the precipitous decrease in compliance and enforcement
activities by the Agency over the past three fiscal years. The Com-
mittee considers a robust inspection and monitoring program to be
an essential element of any effective Compliance Assurance regime
and directs the Agency to use the additional resources provided to
increase its compliance monitoring activities.
The Committee is aware of concerns from communities across the
country about the potential health risks associated with prolonged
exposure to ethylene oxide. The Committee notes that the Agency
is currently undertaking rulemakings to amend the Miscellaneous
Organic Chemical Manufacturing National Emissions Standards
for Hazardous Air Pollutants. The Committee has provided the
Agency additional resources for monitoring and compliance activi-
ties, and urges the Agency to engage with communities concerned
about ethylene oxide exposure in a manner that adequately ad-
dresses their concerns. The Committee further urges the Agency to
incorporate validated monitoring data provided to the Agency into
its rulemaking.
Enforcement.—The Committee recommends $271,038,000 for en-
forcement activities, $30,401,000 above the enacted level and
$45,925,000 above the request. The Committee provide $15,844,000
for NEPA implementation, equal to the enacted level.
Environmental Justice.—The Committee provides $14,120,000 for
the Environmental Justice program project. The Committee expects
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the Agency to use these increased resources to make further
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progress implementing the EJ 2020 Action Agenda, including (1)
progress in overburdened communities, in which the Agency shall
work with co-regulators to identify and undertake community-fo-
cused compliance reviews and focused enforcement strategies in at
least 100 of the most overburdened communities; and (2) con-
ducting cumulative risk assessments, by using the best available
science to incorporate information on chemical and nonchemical
stressors into Agency health assessments.
As part of its implementation of the EJ Action Agenda, the Agen-
cy is further directed to review and update as necessary its Frame-
work for Cumulative Risk Assessment, which was last done in
2003.
The Committee is aware there are front-line communities that
are overly-burdened by corporate pollution and environmental deg-
radation, leading to a disproportionate negative impact on the
health of community members. The Committee directs the EPA to
develop a definition for disproportionately exposed communities.
The definition should include: communities in which climate
change, pollution, or environmental destruction have exacerbated
systemic racial, regional, social, environmental, and economic injus-
tices by disproportionately affecting indigenous peoples, commu-
nities of color, migrant communities, deindustrialized communities,
depopulated rural communities, the poor, low-income workers,
women, the elderly, the unhoused, people with disabilities, or
youth. The Agency is expected to incorporate this definition into its
ongoing environmental justice work.
The Committee believes there is a complex and interconnected
set of social, educational, economic, health, and environmental fac-
tors which produce systemic racial inequities, including inequities
in environmental justice. The large disparities in coronavirus mor-
tality and morbidity rates seen in communities of color is emblem-
atic of these inequities. The Committee urges the Agency to con-
sider all these factors as it undertakes its environmental justice
work. With the additional resources made available here, the Agen-
cy is urged to support the most ambitious environmental justice
projects and to consider increasing both the size and number of en-
vironmental justice grants the Agency makes.
The Committee urges the Office of Environmental Justice to co-
ordinate its work with the Office of Research and Development’s
research efforts on the links between pollution exposure and
coronavirus health outcomes.
Environmental Protection: National Priorities.—The bill provides
$18,000,000, $300,000 above the enacted level and $18,000,000
above the request. The Committee directs that funds be used for
a competitive grant program for qualified non-profit organizations,
to provide technical assistance for improved water quality or safe
drinking water, adequate wastewater to small systems or indi-
vidual private well owners. The Agency shall provide $15,300,000
for Grassroots Rural and Small Community Water Systems Assist-
ance Act, for activities specified under Section 1442(e) of the Safe
Drinking Water Act (42 U.S.C.300j–1(e)(8)). The Agency is also di-
rected to provide $1,700,000 for grants to qualified not-for-profit or-
ganizations for technical assistance for individual private well own-
ers, with priority given to organizations that currently provide
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technical and educational assistance to individual private well own-
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ers. The Agency is directed to provide on a national and multi-
State regional basis, $1,000,000 for grants to qualified organiza-
tions, for the sole purpose of providing on-site training and tech-
nical assistance for wastewater systems. The Agency shall require
each grantee to provide a minimum 10 percent match, including in
kind contributions. The Agency is directed to allocate funds to
grantees within 180 days of enactment of this Act.
Geographic Programs.—The bill provides $554,910,000,
$44,634,000 above the enacted level and $224,404,000 above the re-
quest. The Committee believes that protecting these important
water bodies is a national priority and provides funding for pro-
grams that support their restoration and protection. From within
the amount provided, the Committee directs the following:
Great Lakes Restoration Initiative.—The Committee recommends
$335,000,000 for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI),
$15,000,000 above the enacted level and the budget request. The
Committee does not include bill language, as requested, author-
izing the Agency to establish cost-share requirements for GLRI
funds. The Committee directs the Agency and the other Federal
partners to continue to work together in coordination with the
Great Lakes States, Tribes, local authorities, and nonfederal stake-
holders to prioritize action-oriented projects in lieu of additional
studies, monitoring and evaluations. Such projects include, but are
not limited to, remediating and delisting Areas of Concern, reduc-
ing nutrient runoff, preventing and controlling invasive species,
and strategies and techniques which restore and protect
streambanks, and natural coastlines and shorelines in order to en-
hance riparian habitats, improve water quality, and increase coast-
al resiliency. As the Agency distributes funds across the five focus
areas, tribal related activities should be maintained at not less
than $15,000,000. Further, the Committee strongly supports ongo-
ing work to reduce the growth of harmful algal blooms and encour-
ages continued focus on watersheds where remediation work re-
duces the threat to human health.
The Committee is aware of the importance of the Great Lakes
Legacy Act and the GLRI in accelerating the delisting of Areas of
Concern, in particular, where Areas of Concern were created by
post-industrial pollution from Superfund sites and may impact wa-
tersheds with more than one Area of Concern and their associated
tributaries.
The Committee is aware of interest in utilizing GLRI funds in
the Chicago River Watershed and encourages the Agency to brief
the Committee on any benefits that might accrue to the Great
Lakes from restoration work in the Chicago River.
The Committee supports the Agency’s decision to reconstitute the
Great Lakes Advisory Board. The Committee strongly believes that
efforts to restore and protect the Great Lakes benefit greatly from
the participation and inclusion of the widest possible array of
stakeholders. As the Board does its work, the Committee urges the
Board to seek out and include the perspectives of all interested par-
ties and stakeholders, including representatives from Tribes, local
municipalities, historically disadvantaged communities, conserva-
tion groups, agricultural groups, commercial and recreational fish-
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ing interests, and other relevant stakeholders.
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Chesapeake Bay.—The Committee recommends $90,500,000 for
the Chesapeake Bay program, $5,500,000 above the enacted level
and $83,200,000 above the budget request. From within the
amount provided, $10,375,000 is for nutrient and sediment removal
grants and $10,375,000 is for small watershed grants to control
polluted runoff from urban, suburban and agricultural lands, and
$8,750,000 is for state-based implementation in the most effective
basins.
San Francisco Bay.—The Committee recommends $15,000,000
for the San Francisco Bay program, $9,078,000 above the enacted
level and $15,000,000 above the request. The Committee directs
the Agency to apply the increase towards high priority activities
within the Bay Delta Action Plan.
Puget Sound.—The Committee recommends $38,000,000 for
Puget Sound, $5,000,000 above the enacted level and $38,000,000
above the budget request. Funds shall be allocated in the same
manner as directed in House Report 112–331. The Committee di-
rects the Agency to expeditiously obligate funds, in a manner con-
sistent with the authority and responsibilities under Section 320
and the National Estuary Program.
Long Island Sound.—The Committee recommends $30,400,000
for Long Island Sound, $9,400,000 above the enacted level and
$30,400,000 above the budget request. The Agency shall operate
the program as specified in section 119 of the Clean Water Act.
Lake Champlain.—The Committee recommends $13,400,000 for
the Lake Champlain program, $10,000 above the enacted level and
$13,400,000 above the request. To restore and protect Lake Cham-
plain and its surrounding watershed, funds should be allocated
through the Lake Champlain Basin Program Process to support im-
plementation of the section 120 of the Clean Water Act, and by
partnering with states, local organizations, and other stakeholders
working to address challenges in the area, including phosphorus
pollution, toxic substances, biodiversity, aquatic invasive species,
and to make the lake and the surrounding communities and eco-
systems more resilient to climate change.
Southern New England Estuaries.—The bill provides $6,000,000,
$600,000 above the enacted level and $6,000,000 above the request.
The Committee directs the Agency to use the increase to spur in-
vestments in regionally significant and landscape-scale restoration
projects through technical assistance, grants, and contracts.
Great Lakes and Lake Champlain Invasive Species Program.—
The Committee looks forward to reviewing the plan directed in P.L.
116–94 on the Agency’s expected actions in fiscal year 2020 to im-
plement the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain Invasive Species
Program as authorized by the Vessel Incident Discharge Act (P.L.
115–282). In fiscal year 2021, the Committee directs the Agency to
use funds from the appropriate Geographic Program to build on
these implementation efforts to reduce the risk of introduction of
invasive species into the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain. The
Agency is directed to include details of these amounts as part of
the Agency’s operating plan.
Homeland Security.—The Committee recommends $10,467,000,
$454,000 above the enacted level and $443,000 above the request.
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The Committee provides the requested increase for Critical Infra-
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93
structure Protection and rejects the proposed reductions for the
other activities in this program area.
Indoor Air and Radiation.—The Committee recommends
$24,951,000, equal to the enacted level and $20,131,000 above the
request. The Agency is directed to continue to operate the Radon
program as in fiscal year 2020. Additionally, the Committee notes
the need to continue to maintain the U.S. source standard for
radon gas for use by states and industry as the national bench-
mark for radon measurement devices, and encourages the Agency
to collect available radon test data to update the national U.S. EPA
Radon Map and develop locality-specific classifications of radon
risks.
Information Exchange/Outreach.—The Committee recommends
$119,960,000, $1,132,000 above the enacted level and $25,055,000
above the request. The Committee provides $43,784,000 for Execu-
tive Management and Operations and $1,983,000 for Small Busi-
ness Ombudsman, as requested, and increases Tribal Capacity
Building to $14,099,000. Funding for the Exchange Network and
the Small Minority Business Alliance are $15,500,000 and
$1,193,000, respectively.
The Committee provides $14,200,000 for State and Local Preven-
tion and Preparedness. The Committee notes that many commu-
nities have significant concerns regarding the adequacy of Risk
Management Plans (RMPs) for petrochemical or other facilities
that store hazardous materials. The Committee directs the Office
of Emergency Management to engage with local communities when
requested to ascertain the adequacy of RMPs, including conducting
independent risk analyses when warranted. The Agency is also
urged to consider when and where proactive, interactive, and reac-
tive mitigation response barriers are needed to prevent, control,
and/or mitigate the consequences of major accident risks.
The Committee provides $13,901,000 for the Toxic Release Inven-
tory (TRI), $1,411,000 above the enacted level. The increase is pro-
vided to help support the additional work associated with PFAS re-
porting under TRI. The National Defense Authorization Act for Fis-
cal Year 2020 (P.L. 116–92) added 172 PFAS chemicals to the list
of chemicals subject to reporting in the TRI, and the Agency is cur-
rently conducting rulemakings to further expand this list. The
Committee strongly believes that the public must have access to
high-quality data on releases of PFAS and urges the Agency to
adopt a comprehensive approach with respect to reporting of PFAS
releases.
International Programs.—The Committee recommends
$15,216,000, $605,000 above the enacted level and $4,588,000
above the request. The Committee increases funding for Inter-
national Sources of Pollution to $8,000,000, and of the increase pro-
vided, $400,000 is made available to support efforts to reduce food
loss and waste, and the remaining increase in this program project
should be used to support efforts to reduce marine debris and plas-
tics in the ocean.
The Committee notes that in September 2016, the Agency re-
newed its Memorandum of Understanding with the World Health
Organization (WHO) covering a wide range of topics connecting
public health and indoor and outdoor air quality, climate change,
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water sanitation, and exposure to toxic substances. As part of this
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longstanding partnership, the Agency has provided grants to the
WHO to support their shared mission to protect public health. The
Committee directs the Agency to continue that support at no less
than the fiscal year 2018 level.
IT/Data Management/Security.—The Committee recommends
$93,076,000, $5,260,000 above the enacted level and equal to the
request. The Committee provides $11,815,000 for Information Secu-
rity, and funds IT/Data Management at the enacted level. The
Committee applauds the Agency for its work to support tele-
working during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
The Committee is disappointed that the Agency deviated from IT
procurement requirements when it chose to forgo cost and alter-
natives analyses when deciding to upgrade its time and attendance
system software, as detailed in Office of Inspector General (IG) Re-
port No. 20–P 0134. The Agency is directed to conduct these anal-
yses and submit them to the Committee not more than 15 days
after enactment. The Agency is further directed to notify the Com-
mittee upon its completion of Recommendations 1 and 2 as de-
scribed in the IG’s report.
Legal/Science/Regulatory/Economic Review.—The Committee
recommends $108,896,000, $4,653,000 above the enacted level and
$9,858,000 below the request. The Committee provides $12,000,000
for Integrated Environmental Strategies and directs that the in-
crease be used to support Community-Driven Environmental Pro-
tection and the Office of Community Revitalization. The Committee
provides the requested amounts for Administrative Law, Civil
Rights Program, and the Science Advisory Board. The remaining
program projects are funded at the enacted levels.
The Committee is alarmed by revisions to the Science Advisory
Board engagement process outlined in a memorandum from the
Administrator titled ‘‘Science Advisory Board Engagement Process
for Review of Regulatory Actions,’’ published on February 25, 2020.
The Committee notes that the process for SAB engagement out-
lined in the memorandum may be inconsistent with statute, and
many members of the SAB submitted written comments on the pro-
posed process which were highly critical of the proposal because of
the way that the proposed process limited or undermined SAB re-
view. The Committee expects the Agency to modify its SAB engage-
ment process to comport with all legal requirements while improv-
ing the engagement process.
Pesticides Licensing.—The Committee recommends $107,046,000
for licensing and registration activities, equal to the enacted level
and $17,664,000 above the request. In March 2019, Congress en-
acted the Pesticide Registration Improvement Act of 2018 (P.L.
116–8) which made previously collected fees available for use with-
out further appropriation. The Committee expects that increased
fee utilization will obviate the need for increased appropriations in
fiscal year 2021 and in the future.
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).—The Com-
mittee recommends $118,900,000, $6,111,000 above the enacted
level and $29,122,000 above the request. The Committee rejects the
proposed eliminations, reductions, or delays in cleanups, and di-
rects the Agency to continue its technical support of stakeholders
regarding the development, approval, and implementation of waste
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disposal programs. Of the funds provided under this program area,
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$9,000,000 is for implementation of a federal permit program for
coal combustion residuals in non-participating states, as authorized
under section 4005(d)(2)(B) of the Solid Waste Disposal Act (42
U.S.C. 6945(d)(2)(B)), or to provide technical assistance to states
establishing their own permitting program under section 4005(d) of
the Solid Waste Disposal Act (42 U.S.C. 6945(d)). The Committee
provides $699,000 as requested to support efforts to reduce marine
debris and plastics in the ocean.
The Committee provides $13,500,000 for Waste Minimization and
Recycling, a $4,601,000 increase above the enacted level. The Com-
mittee directs the Agency to continue efforts to ensure the long-
term economic and environmental viability of recycling programs
by working in concert with for-profit, non-profit, state and local
governments, and other stakeholders through the national recy-
cling strategy.
Recycling provides significant contributions to American pros-
perity and the protection of the environment, and the Committee
supports efforts to strengthen the U.S. recycling system and in-
crease outreach, awareness, and education on recycling. Within
funding provided for Waste Minimization & Recycling, the Com-
mittee includes up to $1,500,000 for the Agency to work with
states, local governments, nonprofits, and public-private partner-
ships to educate and inform consumers and households about their
residential and community recycling programs.
Reducing Plastic Waste in Commerce.—The Committee notes
that while the Agency’s focus on improving recycling rates across
the country is appreciated, the Committee is disappointed that
waste reduction efforts appear to play a minimal role in the Agen-
cy’s current sustainability efforts. In particular, the Committee be-
lieves that efforts to reduce the production and use of virgin plas-
tics, especially single-use plastics, must be part of any overall strat-
egy to reduce the landfilling of waste materials and a transition to
a circular economy. The Committee directs the Agency to prepare
a report on single use plastics. The report should analyze plastics
by plastic type, and should evaluate the recyclability of each type
of plastic, the average recycled content of each type of plastic, and
the national and regional rates at which each plastic type is recy-
cled. The report should also evaluate the efficacy of state and local
policies to reduce the use of single-use plastics, including bans,
fees, and other mandatory and voluntary policies designed to re-
duce or discourage the use of single-use plastics. The report should
also include estimates on the potential impacts in generated waste
if such policies were adopted at the national level. The Agency
shall submit this report to the Committee within 270 days after en-
actment of this Act.
Recycling Needs Survey and Assessment.—The Committee directs
the Agency to begin a comprehensive data collection effort to
strengthen residential recycling and accelerate the move towards a
circular economy. The data collected should include: the number of
community curbside recycling programs; the number of community
drop-off programs; the total amount of residential packaging mate-
rials collected through deposit programs; the total amount of resi-
dential materials collected through curbside programs annually;
the types of materials accepted by each program; the number of
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citizens with access to recycling services on par with access to dis-
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posal; and the inbound contamination and capture rates of commu-
nity recycling programs. The Agency should also collect data on
single use plastics, including the types of single-use plastics cur-
rently in commerce, the recyclability of these plastics types, and
the rates at which these plastics are currently recycled by plastic
type and by region. Additionally, the Agency should collect data on
aluminum, including the rates at which aluminum cans are recy-
cled. Further, the Agency should develop estimates of the infra-
structure investment required to modernize the Material Recovery
infrastructure to achieve consistent collection across the nation and
maximize the efficient delivery of materials to the circular econ-
omy. The Agency should also develop estimates for the amounts of
investment needed to provide all citizens with access to recycling
services on par with access to disposal. The updated strategy with
recommendations should be reported to the Committee within 270
days of enactment of this Act.
Water: Ecosystems.—The Committee recommends $51,123,000,
$2,059,000 above the enacted level and $28,519,000 above the re-
quest. From within the amount provided, the Committee provides
$675,000 per estuary for National Estuary Program (NEP) grants
funded under Section 320 of the Clean Water Act. An additional
$1,500,000 in funding is provided for competitive grants. The Com-
mittee encourages the Agency to work in consultation with the
NEP directors to identify worthy projects and activities.
Mississippi River Restoration and Resiliency Strategy.—The Com-
mittee recognizes that the Mississippi River basin from Minnesota
to Louisiana is a vital American waterway. From funds within the
Water: Ecosystems program area, the Committee directs the Agen-
cy to establish a Mississippi River Restoration and Resiliency
Strategy, in coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,
the Department of Agriculture, the Department of the Interior, the
Federal Emergency Management Agency, the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, as well as state, local, and tribal gov-
ernments, and business and non-profit stakeholders. The strategy
will inventory existing federal and state investments in the Mis-
sissippi River basin, identify gaps, and make recommendations for
policy actions focused on improving water quality, restoring habitat
and natural systems, improving navigation, eliminating aquatic
invasive species, and building local resilience to natural disasters.
The Committee directs the Agency to report the findings, strategy,
and recommendations not later than 270 days after enactment of
this Act. The Committee provides $2,000,000 to develop this strat-
egy.
Water: Human Health Protection.—The Committee recommends
$107,000,000, $4,513,000 above the enacted level and $9,538,000
above the request. The Committee directs the Agency to maintain
the Beach program at the enacted level. Of the increase provided,
$1,000,000 is to further support implementation of requirements
under America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018 (P.L. 115–270)
and $1,500,000 is intended for regulatory work associated with set-
ting Maximum Contaminant Levels in drinking water and other
regulatory actions for PFAS chemicals.
The Committee understands that there is strong interest in car-
bon capture and storage projects that permanently sequester car-
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bon dioxide in geologic formations instead of releasing this pollut-
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ant into the air. The Committee provides an additional $750,000
for the Underground Injection Control program (UIC) to review
permit applications in states that do not have primacy over Class
VI permitting, and to review and provide technical assistance to
states that are seeking primacy over Class VI injection wells.
The Agency is encouraged to continue coordinating with the Food
and Drug Administration in light of the directive included in Sec-
tion 773 of Division B of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2019
(P.L. 116–6).
Water Quality Protection.—The Committee recommends
$224,282,000, $16,593,000 above the enacted level and $17,803,000
above the request. The Committee provides $2,000,000 to help sup-
port efforts to reduce marine debris and plastics in the ocean, and
increases funding for the Agency’s ongoing work on harmful algal
blooms by $1,000,000.
The Committee strongly believes that the Agency should develop
Effluent Limit Guidelines (ELGs) for PFAS chemicals under sec-
tions 304 and 306 of the Clean Water Act. The Committee provides
an additional $2,487,000 for developing ELGs and other priority
work to protect surface waters from PFAS contamination.
The Committee supports the WaterSENSE and Urban Waters
programs, and directs the Agency to continue funding for these ac-
tivities at the enacted levels.
The Committee supports ongoing activities related to integrated
planning, which will be increasingly necessary as States and com-
munities evaluate wastewater systems for lead contamination
issues and pipe replacement. The Committee is also aware that the
Agency has appointed its first Municipal Ombudsman, as required
under the recently enacted Water Infrastructure Improvement Act
(P.L. 115–436) (WIIA). The Committee expects the Municipal Om-
budsman to facilitate coordination and communication between
municipalities, regional offices, and the Administrator, and to pro-
vide municipalities with technical assistance as they develop per-
mits that incorporate integrated plans.
Additional Guidance.—The Committee includes the following ad-
ditional guidance with respect to funding provided under this ac-
count:
Administrator Priorities.—The Agency is directed to submit a re-
port within 90 days of enactment of this Act that identifies how
any fiscal year 2019 and 2020 funding was used, by account, pro-
gram area, and program project. Each activity funded should in-
clude a justification for the effort and any anticipated results.
Asbestos.—The Committee is concerned the Agency is not taking
steps to eliminate the future use of asbestos in a variety of applica-
tions. The Agency is directed to submit a report to the Committee
within 180 days of enactment of this Act on its efforts to monitor,
remove, and eliminate the use of asbestos.
Benefits of the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS).—The
Committee is concerned with the Agency’s final action regarding
MATS announced on April 16, 2020 and directs the Agency to pub-
lish, within 180 days of enactment, a report comprehensively as-
sessing the public health benefits, environmental protections and
compliance costs of the existing MATS, and to compare those bene-
fits with the estimated change in benefits that could result if the
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MATS rule were to be invalidated.
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Chlorpyrifos.—The Committee is concerned about the Agency’s
decision to not ban the use of the pesticide chlorpyrifos. The Com-
mittee accepts the findings from numerous studies establishing the
link between the use of chlorpyrifos and brain damage in children.
The Committee urges the EPA to establish standards of use for
chlorpyrifos in order to reduce potential exposure to children and
other vulnerable populations, and to report to the Committee with-
in 60 days after enactment of this Act on its plans to reduce expo-
sure in children.
Emissions from Marine Engines.—The Committee recognizes the
air quality benefits associated with upgrading older, unregulated
engines with newer engines that meet current emissions standards.
The Committee is aware of some instances of smaller commercial
marine vessels, such as tugboats, which are currently under con-
struction but do not meet Tier 4 marine engine emissions require-
ments. The Agency is directed to brief the Committee on any such
situations it is aware of, and how the Agency has handled similar
circumstances in the past. The Committee encourages the Agency
to continue working with affected stakeholders.
Hexavalent Chromium.—The Committee is concerned with the
lack of progress by the Agency in updating the Maximum Contami-
nant Level for hexavalent chromium, or chromium-6, a carcinogen
estimated to be in the drinking water of over 200 million Ameri-
cans. The Agency’s assessment of chromium-6 has been ongoing
since 2010 and the Agency has stated that it expects this assess-
ment to continue at least into 2022. The Committee believes a safe
drinking water standard for hexavalent chromium is overdue and
expects the Agency to proceed expeditiously towards completing its
review and finalizing a new standard.
Increasing Renewable Generation on the Electric Grid.—The
Committee strongly supports actions that ensure the continued re-
liability of the electrical grid, as the nation transitions to less ex-
pensive and less-polluting sources of electric power. The Committee
is aware there is interest by some in the use of quick start sta-
tionary combustion turbines to address perceived reliability con-
cerns associated with the increased use of intermittent renewable
generation in the nation’s regional power markets. The Agency is
encouraged to brief the Committee on technology options that
might be deployed to mitigate reliability concerns, and to present
any analyses on the costs and net emissions profiles, especially
greenhouse gas emissions, associated with such options, especially
when used in combination with intermittent renewable power gen-
eration.
Lead and Copper Rule.—The Committee is concerned by the re-
cently proposed revisions to the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR), pub-
lished in the Federal Register on November 13, 2019, which may
delay the rate at which cities and municipalities replace lead serv-
ice lines. No later than 180 days after enactment of this Act, the
Agency shall submit to the Committee a report on the economic
and health impacts of allowing cities and municipalities to remove
lead lines at a slower pace than previously mandated, as well as
the effect of not replacing entire networks of lines.
Additionally, as the Agency works to finalize its the revisions to
the LCR, The Committee urges the Agency to conduct an environ-
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mental justice analysis on the rule’s impact. Specifically, the Agen-
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99
cy is urged to quantify how the lead service line replacement provi-
sions in the final rule will impact health equity disparities. The
Agency is also encouraged to incorporate into its economic analysis
of the final LCR, the societal benefits of its proposal in terms of po-
tential reductions of cardiovascular disease mortality and consider
those in its decisions as appropriate. The Agency is directed to sub-
mit a report to the Committee after the revised LCR is finalized
of the rule’s impact on environmental justice issues, health equity
disparities, and potential reductions of cardiovascular disease mor-
tality.
Regulation of Biogenic Emissions.—The Committee directs the
Agency to brief the Committee on any planned Agency actions re-
lated to de minimis biogenic emissions associated with units with
static or low-flow air volumes at bakeries and other food processing
facilities, such as proof boxes, prior to taking any regulatory ac-
tions on such emissions, and encourages the Agency, in coordina-
tion with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, to study this issue
to evaluate science-based methodologies to ensure accurate meas-
urements of emissions in static or low-flow conditions.
Regenerative Agriculture and Climate Change.—The Committee
directs the Agency to submit a report to the Committee within 180
days of enactment of this Act that provides information on the
nexus between pesticide use and climate change mitigation and ad-
aptation, particularly the ability of regenerative organic agriculture
to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide and to se-
quester carbon while helping to preserve biodiversity. The report
should also evaluate the adverse effects pesticides may have on pol-
linators and other insects, wildlife and water quality.
Restrictions on Certain Communications.— The Committee re-
minds EPA that funding may not be used in a manner contrary to
Section 401 of this bill.
Sunscreens and the Environment.—The Committee is aware of
research conducted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Ad-
ministration and its partners that found that, among a number of
other threats, some chemical components of sunscreens or other
personal health products may threaten the health of coral reefs.
The Committee directs the Agency to work with the Food and Drug
Administration to coordinate information sharing on sunscreen in-
gredients that are approved or are pending approval, including in-
formation pertaining to any potential environmental impacts from
their use.
Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS).—The Committee is disappointed in
the final ‘‘The Navigable Waters Protection Rule: Definition of
‘Waters of the United States’’, published in the Federal Register on
April 21, 2020 (85 Fed. Reg. 22250). The Committee notes that the
Scientific Advisory Board ‘‘concluded that the proposed WOTUS
rule does not incorporate best available science and as such [the
SBA] finds[s] that a scientific basis for the proposed Rule, and its
consistency with the objectives of the Clean Water Act, is lacking.
The proposed Rule does not present new science to support this
definition, thus the SAB finds that the proposed Rule lacks a sci-
entific justification, while potentially introducing new risks to
human and environmental health’’ (EPA–SAB–20–002). The Com-
mittee further notes that the final rule did not address the tech-
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nical findings of the SAB. Not later than 30 days after the date of
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100
enactment of this Act, the Agency is directed to submit a report to
the Committee addressing the six technical deficiencies identified
in the SAB’s commentary.
In addition, the Agency shall contract with the National Acad-
emy of Sciences to prepare a report studying the impacts of the
final rule on improving the physical, biological, and chemical integ-
rity of the Nation’s waters as directed under the Clean Water Act.
In particular, the report shall compare the aforementioned final
rule to the regulations contained in the final rule published at 80
Fed. Reg. 37,054 (June 29, 2015) and estimate any foregone eco-
nomic benefits related to flood damage, drinking water source con-
tamination, impacts on swimming and fishing, and any additional
impacts to other ecosystem services. The Agency shall transmit to
the Committee the final report containing the results of the study
not later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act.
HAZARDOUS WASTE ELECTRONIC MANIFEST SYSTEM FUND
This account supports all activities necessary for the develop-
ment and operation of the system established by the Hazardous
Waste Electronic Manifest Establishment Act (P.L. 112–195).
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $0
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 0
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 0
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... 0
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ 0
The Committee recommends $8,000,000 for the Hazardous Waste
Electronic Manifest System Fund, which is to be offset by
$8,000,000 in collections from e-Manifest user fees, resulting in no
new net budget authority.
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL
The Office of Inspector General (OIG) provides audit, evaluation,
and investigation products and advisory services to improve the
performance and integrity of EPA programs and operations. The
Inspector General (IG) will continue to perform the function of IG
for the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board. This ac-
count funds personnel compensation and benefits, travel, and ex-
penses (excluding rent, utilities, and security costs) for the Office
of Inspector General. In addition to the funds provided under this
heading, this account receives funds from the Hazardous Substance
Superfund account.
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $41,489,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 39,825,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 45,100,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +3,611,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +5,275,000
The Committee recommends $45,100,000 for the Office of Inspec-
tor General, $3,611,000 above the enacted level and $5,275,000
above the budget request. In addition, the Committee recommends
$11,586,000 as a payment to this account from the Hazardous Sub-
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stance Superfund account.
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BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES
The Buildings and Facilities account provides for the design and
construction of EPA-owned facilities as well as for the repair, ex-
tension, alteration, and improvement of facilities used by the Agen-
cy. The funds are used to correct unsafe conditions, protect health
and safety of employees and Agency visitors, and prevent deteriora-
tion of structures and equipment.
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $33,598,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 39,553,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 39,676,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 ............................................................................ +6,078,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... +123,000
The Committee recommends $39,676,000 for Buildings and Fa-
cilities, $6,078,000 above the enacted level and $123,000 above the
request.
The Committee notes that in addition to the $33,598,000 in reg-
ular appropriations provided in fiscal year 2020, the Buildings and
Facilities account received an additional $300,000 in emergency
supplemental appropriations as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief,
and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) (P.L. 116–136) to prevent,
prepare for, and respond to coronavirus domestically and inter-
nationally.
The Committee is dismayed by the Agency’s repeated failures to
follow Congressional reprogramming directives regarding office
moves, relocations, closures, and consolidations. As a result of the
Agency’s refusal to cooperate with the Committee’s inquiries in
these matters, the bill includes an Administrative Provision bar-
ring the Agency from using funds in this Act or previous Acts to
affect any such moves.
HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE SUPERFUND
(INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)
The Hazardous Substance Superfund (Superfund) program was
established in 1980 by the Comprehensive Environmental Re-
sponse, Compensation, and Liability Act to clean up emergency
hazardous materials, spills, and dangerous, uncontrolled, and/or
abandoned hazardous waste sites. The Superfund Amendments and
Reauthorization Act (SARA) expanded the program substantially in
1986, authorizing approximately $8,500,000,000 in revenues over
five years. In 1990, the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act ex-
tended the program’s authorization through 1994 for
$5,100,000,000 with taxing authority through calendar year 1995.
The Superfund program is operated by EPA subject to annual ap-
propriations from a dedicated trust fund and from general reve-
nues. Enforcement activities are used to identify and induce parties
responsible for hazardous waste problems to undertake cleanup ac-
tions and pay for EPA oversight of those actions. These enforce-
ment actions are an essential element to the success of the pro-
gram. In addition, responsible parties have been required to cover
the cost of fund-financed removal and remedial actions undertaken
at spills and waste sites by Federal and State agencies. At sites
ctelli on DSK30NT082PROD with REPORTS
where no viable responsible party can be identified, EPA may use
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102
monies from the Trust Fund to remediate contaminated sites.
Funds are transferred from this account to the Office of Inspector
General and Science and Technology accounts for Superfund re-
lated activities.
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $1,184,755,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 1,078,611,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 1,221,814,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +37,059,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +143,203,000
The Committee recommends $1,221,814,000 for the Hazardous
Substance Superfund program, $37,059,000 above the enacted level
and $143,203,000 above the request. The Committee recommends
that $11,586,000 be transferred to the Office of Inspector General,
and $30,755,000 be transferred to the Science and Technology ac-
count.
The Committee notes that in addition to the $1,184,755,000 in
regular appropriations provided in fiscal year 2020, the Hazardous
Substance Superfund account received an additional $770,000 in
emergency supplemental appropriations as part of the Coronavirus
Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) (P.L. 116–136)
to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus domestically
and internationally.
Enforcement.—The Committee recommends $180,625,000,
$12,250,000 above the enacted level and $1,000,000 above the re-
quest. The Committee rejects the proposed elimination of Environ-
mental Justice program project funding and instead provides
$1,000,000.
Homeland Security.—The Committee recommends $34,494,000,
$1,878,000 above the enacted level and $125,000 above the request.
The Committee rejects the proposed reduction to Protection of EPA
Personnel and Infrastructure and increases funding for this pro-
gram project to $1,040,000. The Committee provides the requested
increases for the remaining program projects. Of the funds pro-
vided, $1,468,000 should be included as part of the transfer to the
Science and Technology account.
Research: Chemical Safety and Sustainability.—The Committee
recommends $12,824,000, equal to the enacted level and $6,665,000
above the request. There remain significant research needs with re-
spect to the human health and ecological impacts of PFAS expo-
sure, and methods for treatment and remediation. The Committee
continues its support for research in support of designating PFAS
chemicals as hazardous substances under Section 102 of CERCLA.
The Agency is directed to include these funds as part of the trans-
fer to the Science and Technology account.
Research: Sustainable and Healthy Communities.—The Com-
mittee recommends $16,463,000, equal to the enacted level and
$5,015,000 above the request. The Committee continues its support
for research in support of designating PFAS chemicals as haz-
ardous substances under Section 102 of CERCLA. The Agency is
directed to include these funds as part of the transfer to the
Science and Technology account.
Superfund Cleanup.—The Committee recommends $814,306,000,
$19,566,000 above the enacted level and $131,908,000 above the re-
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quest. The Committee urges the Agency to prioritize work at sites
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103
where activities will result in reduced human exposure to toxic
substances. The Committee provides an additional $2,500,000 with-
in the Superfund: Remedial program, to support regulatory work
needed to designate PFAS chemicals as hazardous substances
under section 102 of CERCLA.
The Committee also directs the Agency, within 180 days of enact-
ment of this Act, to submit a report on the status of each time-crit-
ical removal action for which Federal funds greater than
$1,000,000 have been expended since January 1, 2017, along with
the Federal cost of clean-up efforts, whether responsible parties
have faced criminal charges, and the amount of recovered Federal
dollars.
Additional Guidance.—The Committee includes the following ad-
ditional guidance with respect to funding provided under this ac-
count:
Abandoned Uranium Mines on the Navajo Nation.—The Com-
mittee is aware of the Agency’s maintenance of settlement funds
acquired from Potentially Responsible Parties (PRPs) for the clean-
up of abandoned uranium mines on the Navajo Nation. While set-
tlement funds are available for cleanup at 219 abandoned uranium
mine sites, the Committee is concerned that there are an estimated
305 additional identified abandoned uranium mine sites on the
Navajo Nation that may also require cleanup. The Committee en-
courages the Agency to consult with the Navajo Nation Environ-
mental Protection Agency and other relevant federal agencies to
develop cost estimates and timelines for the remediation the re-
maining abandoned mine sites on the Navajo Nation.
New and Emerging Technologies.—To increase the rate of clean-
ups of Superfund sites around the country, the Agency is encour-
aged to collaborate with the private sector to utilize the best avail-
able technologies and in situ remediation products to restore these
sites as expeditiously as possible to return them to productive use.
LEAKING UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANK TRUST FUND PROGRAM
Subtitle I of the Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended by the
Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act, authorized the
establishment of a response program for cleanup of releases from
leaking underground storage tanks. Owners and operators of facili-
ties with underground tanks must demonstrate financial responsi-
bility and bear initial responsibility for cleanup. The Federal trust
fund is funded through the imposition of a motor fuel tax of one-
tenth of a cent per gallon.
In addition to State resources, the Leaking Underground Storage
Tank (LUST) Trust Fund provides funding to clean up sites, en-
forces necessary corrective actions, and recovers costs expended
from the Fund for cleanup activities. The underground storage
tank response program is designed to operate primarily through co-
operative agreements with States. Funds are also used for grants
to non-State entities, including Indian Tribes, under Section 8001
of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.
The Energy Policy Act of 2005 expanded the authorized activities
of the Fund to include the underground storage tank program. In
2006, Congress amended section 9508 of the Internal Revenue
Code to authorize expenditures from the trust fund for prevention
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and inspection activities.
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Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $91,941,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 48,218,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 92,543,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +602,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +44,325,000
The Committee recommends $92,543,000 for the Leaking Under-
ground Storage Tank (LUST) Trust Fund Program, $602,000 above
the enacted level and $44,325,000 above the budget request. The
Committee rejects the proposed decrease in research to charac-
terize and remediate contaminated sites.
Regular inspections of Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) are a
key part of an overall strategy to prevent and minimize impacts of
releases of fuels or other hazardous substances from USTs. The
Committee provides $25,369,000 to support state inspection pro-
grams.
The Committee supports the Agency’s ongoing efforts to study
and mitigate corrosion issues at USTs as the nation employs in-
creasing quantities of emerging fuels.
INLAND OIL SPILL PROGRAMS
This appropriation, authorized by the Federal Water Pollution
Control Act, as amended by the Oil Pollution Act of 1990, provides
funds to prepare for and prevent releases of oil and other petro-
leum products in navigable waterways. In addition, EPA is reim-
bursed for incident specific response costs through the Oil Spill Li-
ability Trust Fund managed by the United States Coast Guard.
EPA is responsible for directing all cleanup and removal activi-
ties posing a threat to public health and the environment; con-
ducting site inspections; providing a means to achieve cleanup ac-
tivities by private parties; reviewing containment plans at facili-
ties; reviewing area contingency plans; pursuing cost recovery of
fund-financed cleanups; and conducting research of oil cleanup
techniques. Funds for this appropriation are provided through the
Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund which is composed of fees and collec-
tions made through provisions of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990, the
Comprehensive Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act, the
Deepwater Port Act of 1974, the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act
Amendments of 1978, and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act,
as amended. Pursuant to law, the Trust Fund is managed by the
United States Coast Guard.
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $19,581,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 16,631,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 20,958,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +1,377,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +4,327,000
The Committee recommends $20,958,000 for the Inland Oil Spill
program, $1,377,000 above the enacted level and $4,327,000 above
the budget request.
Preventing Oil Spills.—The Committee is aware of the high non-
compliance rate among facilities that are required to submit Spill
Prevention Control and Countermeasures Plans or Facility Re-
sponse Plans. The Committee does not support the proposed fee-
based compliance assistance program presented in the budget re-
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quest. The Committee directs the Agency to develop compliance
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and enforcement strategies to reduce the rate of non-compliance.
The Agency is directed to brief the Committee on its strategy with-
in 90 days of enactment.
Research on Dispersants.—The Committee expects the agency to
continue its work studying the performance and behavior of oil
dispersants in deep water and arctic spills, as well as developing
protocols for testing oil spill control agents.
STATE AND TRIBAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS
The State and Tribal Assistance Grants (STAG) account provides
grant funds for programs operated primarily by State, Tribal, local,
and other governmental partners. The account includes two broad
types of funds: (1) Infrastructure Assistance, which is used pri-
marily by state, local, and tribal partners for projects that directly
improve air quality, water quality, or clean up contaminated sites;
supporting environmental protection; and (2) Categorical Grants,
which assist State and Tribal governments and other environ-
mental partners with the operation of environmental programs.
In the STAG account, the agency provides funding for infrastruc-
ture projects through two State Revolving Funds (Clean Water and
Drinking Water), geographic specific projects in Alaskan Native
Villages and on the United States-Mexico Border, Brownfields revi-
talization projects, diesel emission reduction grants, and other tar-
geted infrastructure projects. Additionally, the Water Infrastruc-
ture Improvements for the Nation Act (P.L. 114–322) (WIIN Act)
and America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018 (P.L. 115–270)
(AWIA) authorized a number of clean water and drinking water
grant programs designed to address specific water-related health
and environmental concerns in communities.
The State Revolving Funds (SRFs) provide Federal financial as-
sistance to protect the Nation’s water resources. The Clean Water
SRF helps eliminate municipal discharge of untreated or inad-
equately treated pollutants and thereby helps maintain or restore
the country’s water to a swimmable and/or fishable quality. The
Clean Water SRF provides resources for municipal, inter-munic-
ipal, State, and interstate agencies and Tribal governments to plan,
design, and construct wastewater facilities and other projects, in-
cluding non-point source, estuary, stormwater, and sewer overflow
projects. The Safe Drinking Water SRF finances improvements to
community water systems so that they can achieve compliance with
the mandates of the Safe Drinking Water Act and continue to pro-
tect public health.
Many Federal environmental statutes include provisions allowing
delegation of day-to-day management of environmental programs to
approved State and Tribal environmental programs. The Federal
statutes were designed to recognize the States and Tribes as part-
ners and co-regulators, allowing States and Tribes to assist with
the execution and implementation of environmental safeguards.
For delegated environmental programs, State and Tribal govern-
ments issue and enforce permits, carry out inspections and moni-
toring, and collect data. To assist States and Tribes in this task,
the statutes also authorized the agency to provide funding to States
and Tribes. These grants, which cover every major aspect of envi-
ronmental protection, include those programs authorized by sec-
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tions 319 and 106 of the Clean Water Act (Federal Water Pollution
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106
Control Act, as amended, for non-point source pollution and the
water quality permits programs), sections 103 and 105 of the Clean
Air Act (for State and Local air quality management programs),
section 128 of CERCLA (for State and Tribal response programs),
section 1443(a) of the Safe Drinking Water Act (for public water
system supervision), and section 3011 of RCRA (for the implemen-
tation of State hazardous waste programs).
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $4,246,232,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 2,848,310,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 4,362,556,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +116,324,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +1,514,246,000
The Committee recommends $4,362,556,000 for the State and
Tribal Assistance Grants account, $116,324,000 above the enacted
level and $1,514,246,000 above the budget request. The Committee
provides the following additional detail by program area:
Infrastructure Assistance.—The Committee recommends
$3,208,106,000 in funds for infrastructure assistance.
Clean Water State Revolving Fund.—The Committee recommends
$1,638,826,000 for the Clean Water SRF, requires at least 10 per-
cent of funds to be used for green infrastructure or energy effi-
ciency projects, reserves $2,000,000 for technical assistance and
training grants, and requires that 10 percent of grant funds be
used for additional subsidization. The Committee urges the Agency
to utilize funding for the Clean Water SRF to protect freshwater
sources. Additionally, to the extent there are sufficient eligible
project applications, up to 20 percent of the funds made available
through the CWSRF to each state may be used by state for projects
that seek to minimize the impacts of nonpoint source pollution and
stormwater runoff through the use of nature-based and other low
impact development techniques.
The Committee notes that wastewater treatment facilities are
some of the largest industrial users of electricity in the nation and
has provided Green Project Reserve (GPR) funds as part of the
Clean Water SRF to encourage states to improve energy and water
efficiency at treatment facilities. In order to better track the ways
in which states are utilizing GPR funds, the Committee directs the
Agency to develop a uniform reporting framework which states
may use to report their GPR spending, and urges the Agency to in-
clude tools and metrics that allow states to quantify estimated en-
ergy and water savings benefits of these investments. The agency
shall also provide entities that provide technical assistance to
wastewater and drinking water treatment facilities clear guidance
on metrics for how to utilize GPR set asides. Finally, the Agency
is directed to increase its cooperation on GPR technical assistance
with the Department of Energy’s Advanced Manufacturing Office
and the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Develop-
ment Program.
The Committee is aware that in many parts of the country, un-
treated wastewater from failing septic systems contaminates sur-
face waters and ground water. Section 4107 of AWIA authorizes
the use of Clean Water SRF funds to be used to address septic sys-
tems. The Committee encourages the Agency to avail itself of all
ctelli on DSK30NT082PROD with REPORTS
tools and authorities to address sources of water contamination.
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The Committee directs the Agency to submit a report describing
the prevalence throughout the United States of low- and moderate-
income households without access to wastewater treatment works,
and information detailing the use by States of assistance to support
the repair or replacement of septic systems or to connect house-
holds to publicly-owned treatment works.
Drinking Water State Revolving Fund.—The Committee rec-
ommends $1,126,088,000 for the Drinking Water SRF, allows funds
to be used to finance green infrastructure or energy efficiency
projects, and requires that 14 percent be used for additional sub-
sidization.
US Mexico Border Water Infrastructure Grant Program.—The
Committee recommends $25,000,000 for drinking water and waste-
water infrastructure projects along the US Mexico border that ben-
efit U.S. citizens by reducing the flow of transnational pollution
flows into the U.S.
Alaska Native Villages.—The Committee recommends
$29,186,000 in drinking water and wastewater infrastructure
projects in Alaska Native Villages and other rural communities
that face significant health challenges due to lack of adequate sani-
tation.
Brownfields Program.—The Committee recommends $90,000,000
for brownfields grants and directs that at least 10 percent of such
grants be provided to areas in which at least 20 percent of the pop-
ulation has lived under the poverty level over the past 30 years as
determined by censuses and the most recent Small Area Income
and Poverty Estimates, and that not less than an additional 20
percent of funds be used for projects in Qualified Opportunity
Zones.
Diesel Emissions Reductions Grants (DERA).—The Committee
recommends $90,000,000 for DERA grants. More than 10 million
older, heavily polluting diesel engines remain in use that have yet
to be retrofitted, repowered, or replaced, and over one million are
expected to remain in use in 2030. For fiscal year 2021, the Com-
mittee directs EPA to continue to make at least 70 percent of
DERA grants available to improve air quality in non-attainment
areas.
Targeted Airshed Grants.—The Committee recommends
$56,306,000 for targeted airshed grants to reduce particulate mat-
ter 2.5 and ozone air pollution in non-attainment areas. Funding
should be targeted to the 10 most heavily polluted areas, and
projects that provide the most significant air quality improvements,
greatest population-level health benefits, and that provide signifi-
cant benefits to overburdened communities should be given the
highest priority.
Water Quality Monitoring Grants.—The Committee recommends
$4,000,000 for water monitoring authorized under section 5004 of
the WIIN Act (P.L. 114–322).
Small and Disadvantaged Communities Grants.—The Committee
recommends $26,000,000 in funding for grants to assist small and
disadvantaged communities meet Safe Drinking Water Act require-
ments, authorized in section 2104 of the WIIN Act and section 2005
of AWIA.
Lead Testing in Schools Grants.—The Committee recommends
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$26,000,000 for voluntary testing of drinking water for lead con-
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108
tamination at schools and childcare facilities, as authorized in sec-
tion 2107 of the WIIN Act and section 2006 of AWIA.
Reducing Lead in Drinking Water Grants.—The Committee rec-
ommends $20,000,000 for grants to reduce the concentration of lead
in drinking water, as authorized in section 2105 of the WIIN Act.
In awarding these grants, the Agency is directed to submit a re-
port to the Committee within 180 days of enactment of this Act on
how many of the grant requests and awards cover lead service line
replacement at childcare facilities.
Drinking Water Infrastructure Resilience and Sustainability Pro-
gram Grants.—The Committee recommends $4,000,000 for grants
to increase resilience of drinking water infrastructure to natural
hazards, as authorized in section 2005 of AWIA.
Technical Assistance for Treatment Works Grants.—The Com-
mittee recommends $13,000,000 for grants to provide technical as-
sistance to small, rural, and disadvantaged communities for the
planning, design, financing, operation, and maintenance of water
treatment infrastructure, as authorized by section 4103 as AWIA.
Sewer Overflow Control Grants.—The Committee recommends
$56,700,000 for grants to control and treat sewer overflows, as au-
thorized in section 4106 of AWIA. The Committee directs the Agen-
cy to award no less than 20 percent of grants for green infrastruc-
ture projects.
Water Infrastructure Workforce Development.—The Committee
recommends $3,000,000 for grants to support workforce develop-
ment for drinking water and wastewater system workers, as au-
thorized by section 4304 of AWIA.
Categorical Grants.—For categorical grants to States and other
environmental partners for the implementation of delegated pro-
grams, the bill provides $1,154,450,000, an increase of $78,543,000
above the enacted level and $549,103,000 above the request. Fund-
ing levels for each grant program within the Categorical Grants
program are specified in the table at the end of this report.
Nonpoint Source (Sec. 319).—The Committee recommends
$188,000,000, $15,652,000 above the enacted level. The Committee
notes that the budget request included $15,000,000 for a new Nu-
trients and Harmful Algal Blooms Categorical Grant, while re-
questing no funds for Nonpoint Source grants. The Committee
notes that anthropogenic sources of nutrients, including non-point
sources, are a primary factor in the occurrence and prevalence of
HABs. The Committee points out that reducing non-point sources
of pollution, in particular from agricultural operations, should sig-
nificantly reduce both the frequency and severity of HABs and
therefore encourages the Agency to work with recipients to utilize
these additional resources to prioritize these efforts.
Radon.—The Committee continues to support state radon pro-
gram efforts that raise awareness about the associated risks of
radon exposure. The Committee recommends $7,800,000, and the
Agency shall prioritize radon grants to states that have adopted or
are seeking to adopt statewide radon building codes, conduct
awareness and education programs for homebuyers and renters,
and that have in place adequate certification or credentialing re-
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quirements for radon measurement and mitigation workers.
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109
Additional Guidance.—The Committee includes the following ad-
ditional guidance with respect to funding provided under this ac-
count:
Administration of Grants.—The Committee notes that the award-
ing of infrastructure assistance grants is often unnecessarily de-
layed by lack of sufficient resources to adequately and effectively
administer these grant programs. To ensure that appropriated
funds can be made publicly available and put to work as quickly
as possible, the Administrator has been authorized to reserve a
portion of grant funding for management and oversight purposes
for several grant programs. This includes U.S.-Mexico Border
Water Infrastructure grants, Alaska Native Village grant,
Brownfields grants, DERA grants, Targeted Airsheds grants, Lead
Testing in Schools grants, Reducing Lead in Drinking Water
grants, and Sewer Overflow Control grants. Reserved funds may be
transferred to the EPM account and merged with funds set aside
within EPM for the administration of each respective grant. The
Administrator shall submit a report detailing the amounts of funds
reserved and transferred as part of the Agency’s annual operating
plan.
Water Infrastructure Improvements.—The Committee recognizes
that modernizing the nation’s aging water infrastructure will miti-
gate a myriad of public health and environmental issues connected
to clean water and safe drinking water that States, Tribes, and
municipalities currently face. To address such water quality chal-
lenges, the Committee directs EPA to use existing authorities and
programs to provide technical and financial assistance to water sys-
tems, especially small systems and those located in rural and coast-
al areas. To protect freshwater and drinking water sources and
local and navigable waterways from the risk of contamination or
degradation, the Committee urges the Agency to work with States
to prioritize projects that address cascading sewer pipe failures,
weak stormwater infrastructure, the connection of failing septic
systems to new or existing collection and treatment facilities, and
other at-risk sewer systems, when selecting projects under the
CWSRF. Through the DWSRF, the Committee encourages the
Agency to work with States to emphasize projects that address sys-
tems with unsafe levels of arsenic, lead, PFAS, and other contami-
nants to protect public health and meet applicable Safe Drinking
Water Act standards. As the Agency issues loans and awards funds
throughout fiscal year 2021, the Committee will closely monitor
these actions.
WATER INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCE AND INNOVATION PROGRAM
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $60,000,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 25,023,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 71,023,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +11,023,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +46,000,000
The Committee recommends $71,023,000 for the Water Infra-
structure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) Program; however,
this amount is offset by an Administrative Provision that rescinds
unobligated balances from fiscal years prior to fiscal year 2020.
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Therefore, there is no new net budget authority for loan costs. New
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110
net budget authority is provided only to assist with the administra-
tive costs of operating the program.
The fiscal year 2020 appropriation for the WIFIA program re-
quired the Agency, in conjunction with the Office of Management
and Budget, and the Department of Treasury, to publish project eli-
gibility criteria and to certify prior to publishing any Requests for
Applications that any projects receiving support from the program
shall meet the requirements of the Federal Credit Reform Act of
1990 with regards to the budgetary treatment of federal participa-
tion in such projects.
The Committee also notes that, under the provisions of the fiscal
year 2020 appropriation, the credit subsidy provided in fiscal year
2020 is unavailable for obligation to support the financing of water
infrastructure projects until these criteria are published and certifi-
cations are made. The bill continues these provisions in fiscal year
2021. Further, the recommendation rescinds and reappropriates
unobligated balances from fiscal years prior to fiscal year 2020 in
order to make these requirements applicable to all unobligated bal-
ances.
The Committee expects the Agency to immediately comply with
all its legal obligations in order to allow for the continued operation
of the WIFIA program.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
(INCLUDING TRANSFERS AND RESCISSION OF FUNDS)
The bill authorizes the Administrator to assist Tribes with their
environmental program implementation and to enter into coopera-
tive agreements.
The bill authorizes the Administrator to collect and obligate cer-
tain pesticide fees in accordance with the Pesticide Registration
Improvement Extension Act of 2018.
The bill authorizes the Administrator to assess certain fees
under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act.
The bill authorizes the Administrator to transfer funds appro-
priated for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative to other federal
agencies in support of restoration activities.
The bill authorizes the use of certain accounts for construction,
alteration, repair, rehabilitation, and restoration of facilities, up to
$150,000 per project.
The bill authorizes the Administrator to make certain Clean
Water Act grants to tribes.
The bill authorizes the Administrator to provide grants to imple-
ment the Southeastern New England Watershed Restoration Pro-
gram.
The bill directs the availability of not less than $1,500,000 of
funds for the National Estuary program as competitive grants.
The bill authorizes the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution
Prevention and the Office of Water in fiscal year 2021 to use up
to $2,000,000 to hire students and recent graduates as contractors
on a temporary or intermittent basis.
The bill prohibits the Agency from relocating, closing, or consoli-
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dating any office, laboratory, or facility.
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The bill directs the Administrator to continue regulating power
plant emissions under section 112 of the Clean Air Act and deems
such regulation to be appropriate and necessary.
The bill authorizes the Administrator to transfer funds appro-
priated under the State and Tribal Assistance Grants account and
reserved for management and oversight to purposes to be trans-
ferred to the Environmental Programs and Management account
used to help administer the grant programs from which such funds
were transferred.
The bill withholds $2,000,000 from the Office of the Adminis-
trator funded under the Executive Management and Operations
program project until such time as the Administrator files an
Antideficiency Act report with respect to certain improvements
made to the Administrator’s office furnishings.
The bill rescinds certain appropriations to the Office of the Ad-
ministrator if the Administrator fails to respond in a timely basis
to information requests from the Comptroller General.
The bill directs that within 90 days of enactment, the Adminis-
trator shall take final action on any registration application to par-
ticipate in the Renewable Fuels Pathway II program that has been
pending for more than one year.
The bill clarifies that the Agency may utilize aircraft in its super-
vision of Superfund site cleanups financed through Special Ac-
counts.
The bill rescinds all unobligated balances prior to fiscal year
2020 for the cost of loans or loan subsidies under the WIFIA pro-
gram.
TITLE III—RELATED AGENCIES
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
OFFICE OF THE UNDER SECRETARY FOR NATURAL RESOURCES AND
ENVIRONMENT
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $875,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 875,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 875,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... 0
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ 0
The Committee recommends $875,000 for the Office of the Under
Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment, equal to the en-
acted level and the budget request.
FOREST SERVICE
The U.S. Forest Service manages 193 million acres of National
Forests, Grasslands, and a Tallgrass Prairie, including lands in 44
States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and cooperates with
States, other Federal agencies, Tribes and private landowners to
sustain the Nation’s forests and grasslands. The National Forest
System (NFS) includes 154 national forests, 20 national grasslands,
23 national recreation areas, a national Tallgrass prairie, 13 na-
tional monuments, and seven land utilization projects. The Forest
Service administers a wide variety of programs and activities that
sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of forests and grass-
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lands to include forest and rangeland research, State and private
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forestry assistance, cooperative forest health management, inter-
national operations, NFS management, and wildland fire manage-
ment.
Forest Service Accounting, Budgeting, and Management.—Public
Law 116–94 established the ‘‘Forest Service Operations’’’ account to
eliminate cost pools and directed the Forest Service to provide to
Congress an alternative budget structure within 45 days. The
budget request included a budget structure proposal that provides
a salaries and expenses budget line within each account. The Com-
mittee recognizes that funding Forest Service personnel within one
budget line provides increased transparency of personnel fixed
costs and reduces the accounting demands associated with attrib-
uting work to the numerous activities within any account. While
the Committee supports these goals, the Committee intends to en-
sure that such a budget structure change does not reduce the work
levels historically expected for each of the account activities. The
Committee will continue to work with the Forest Service to identify
key measures that will allow Congress, stakeholders, and the pub-
lic to quickly recognize any performance changes. Congress has not
yet received the data required to establish the Forest Service Oper-
ations account so this bill funds the Forest Service under the cur-
rent budget structure.
Capital Improvement Plan.—The Committee commends the For-
est Service for completion of the comprehensive capital improve-
ment plan as directed by Public Law 115–141. The Committee
agrees that adopting an enterprise-wide system to prioritize capital
improvement projects will ensure the best use of limited funds. In
addition to adopting this process, the Committee directs future
budget requests to include a five-year list of Capital Improvement
Projects over $1,000,000.
Climate Hubs.—The Committee provides not less than enacted
levels to support the work of Department of Agriculture Climate
Hubs, which link research, authoritative tools, and information to
agricultural producers and professionals.
Community Wood Energy and Wood Innovations Program.—The
Committee directs the Forest Service to support the Community
Wood Energy Systems and Innovative Wood Products Facilities
grant program at not less than enacted levels.
Cucamonga Canyon.—The Committee understands that the For-
est Service has completed all current tasks associated with the
management plan on National Forest lands and is awaiting deci-
sions by non-Federal partners regarding parking and trail access
into Cucamonga Canyon from non-Forest land. The Committee sup-
ports a new one-year closure order while work to find acceptable,
sustainable access across non-Federal lands continues. The Com-
mittee urges the Forest Service to work with partners to finalize
plans as quickly as possible.
Flood Control.—The Committee encourages the Forest Service to
contribute to the construction of local flood control projects in areas
of the United States where the Forest Service owns property adja-
cent to flood control channels.
Impact of Forest Collaboratives.—The Committee recognizes the
proven success of forest collaboratives which have helped the For-
est service to achieve increased harvest levels while also improving
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ecosystem health. The Committee directs the Forest Service to con-
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sider the resources and expertise provided by collaboratives as it
works to develop and implement new forest treatments, including
strategies developed by collaboratives that utilize current science
and forest practices, treatments, and techniques that produce a
greater average volume of timber per acre harvested and integrate
ecological, social, and economic goals.
Indian Trust Lands.—The Service is encouraged to promote and
expand the use of agreements with Indian Tribes to protect Indian
trust resources from catastrophic wildfire, insect and disease infes-
tation or other threats from adjacent Federal lands, as authorized
by law.
National Agroforestry Center.—The Committee provides not less
than enacted levels to support the work of the National Agro-
forestry Center which advances the health, diversity, and produc-
tivity of working lands, waters, and communities through agro-
forestry.
Northeastern States Research Cooperative.—The Committee ap-
plauds the Forest Service partnership with the Northeastern States
Research Cooperative and provides not less than enacted levels for
continuation of this work to sustain the health of the northern for-
est ecosystem.
Reforestation methods.—The Committee encourages the Forest
Service to explore the viability and cost-effectiveness of a two-phase
planting project that uses traditional planting methods and drone-
delivered seed vessels for reforestation efforts, including replanting
post-fire landscapes.
Removal of Dead and Dying Trees.—The Forest Service is urged
to consider the use of all existing authorities to remove dead and
dying trees in California and the western United States.
Resource Advisory Committees.—-While the Committee recog-
nizes the Department of Agriculture’s efforts to improve the timeli-
ness of Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) appointee nomina-
tions, nearly sixty percent of RACs currently lack a quorum and
consequently lack the ability to distribute millions of dollars in
Title II Secure Rural Schools funds for projects and investments in
local communities. The Committee directs the Secretary of Agri-
culture to accelerate processing and approving of these nominations
as soon as possible and to report to the Committee within 90 days
of enactment of this Act on the status of these nominations.
Technology Modernization.—The Committee supports tech-
nologies such as the Land Mobile Radio program, the Risk Manage-
ment Assistance framework, machine-learning generated collabo-
rative technology-based strategic wildfire risk planning tools, and
the implementation of the Wildfire Technology Modernization sec-
tion of the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and
Recreation Act. Within the funds provided to the Forest Service,
the Committee provides up to $15,000,000 to increase investment
in these technologies.
Use of Sediment.—The Forest Service is directed to report to the
Committee within 180 days of enactment of this Act on the feasi-
bility of using uncontaminated sediment removed from impound-
ments for beneficial uses on Forest Service lands.
Wood Innovation Grant Program.—The Committee directs the
Forest Service to support the Wood Innovation Grant Program at
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not less than the enacted level. The program works to expand wood
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products and wood energy markets that support forest manage-
ment and deliver economic and environmental benefits to commu-
nities.
FOREST AND RANGELAND RESEARCH
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $305,000,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 249,330,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 311,830,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +6,830,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +62,500,000
The Committee recommends $311,830,000 for Forest and Range-
land Research, $6,830,000 above the enacted level and $62,500,000
above the budget request. Funds are included to address increased
fixed costs.
In addition to funds provided in this bill, the Coronavirus Aid,
Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) (P.L. 116–136) in-
cluded $3,000,000 to reestablish abandoned or failed experiments
associated with employee restrictions due to the coronavirus out-
break.
Forest Inventory and Analysis.—The recommendation includes
$80,954,000 for Forest Inventory and Analysis, $3,954,000 above
the enacted level and $2,500,000 above the budget request. Within
the funds provided, $2,500,000 is included to provide for informa-
tion technology costs that were previously funded within Research
and Development.
Digital Forestry Technologies.—The Committee encourages the
Forest Service to continue investing in new digital approaches to
Forest Inventory and Analysis activities. Such technologies include,
but are not limited to, LiDAR, unmanned aircraft systems, terres-
trial laser scanning, or hyperspectral information; adopting these
technologies as they become ready for operational use. The Com-
mittee further encourages the Forest Service to, using competitive
grants, cooperative agreements, or other award mechanisms, work
closely with university partners with capabilities in this area to
test and adopt existing digital tools and develop new tools and al-
gorithms for precision forest management and for public health im-
provement and mitigation.
Forest Estimates.—The Committee supports the work of the For-
est Inventory and Analysis Program and encourages the Forest
Service to expand this work by establishing a research consortium
tasked with evaluating, comparing, and implementing advanced
methodologies for refining estimates of forest- and landscape-level
biomass and carbon.
Research and Development.—The recommendation includes
$230,876,000, for research and development activities. With the
shift of information technology costs to Forest Inventory and Anal-
ysis, this is a programmatic increase of $5,376,000. The rec-
ommendation is $60,000,000 above the budget request. The Forest
Service is directed to provide $3,000,000 to the Joint Fire Science
program for fiscal year 2021.
The Committee notes the interest of Members of Congress,
States, and stakeholders in funding specific research laboratories,
programs, and projects, including those noted below. This report
emphasizes some of the research activities of importance to the
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Committee and expects the Forest Service to develop a research
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program that reflects these priorities as well as the other activities
and programs most critical to forest health, particularly with re-
spect to climate change adaption, preventing the spread of disease
and invasive species, and watershed improvement.
Bighorn Sheep Research.—The Committee directs the Service to
continue the quantitative, science-based analysis of the risk of dis-
ease transmission between domestic and bighorn sheep required in
the explanatory statement accompanying the Consolidated Appro-
priations Act, 2016 (Public Law 114–113).
Fire Plan Research and Development.—The Committee supports
continued research that significantly contributes to the under-
standing of wildfire regimes, and the development of new fire-
fighting technologies and decision support tools.
Fire and Smoke Modeling.—The Committee supports and pro-
vides not less than enacted levels for the Fire and Smoke Model
Evaluation Experiment (FASMEE), a multi-region fire experiment
involving universities to understand wildfire behavior, mitigate im-
pacts of smoke on public and first responder health, and predict
and manage fire effects on ecosystem health.
Forest Products Laboratory.—The Committee provides not less
than enacted levels for the Forest Products Laboratory to continue
research to advance wood markets, including research on wood-
based nanotechnology; advanced wood products that incorporate
carbon fiber; and wood use in building construction including re-
search on the life cycle impacts of wood as a building material. The
Committee also supports public/private partnerships that provide
project assistance, education, and resources related to the design of
non-residential and multi-family wood buildings, and that leverage
research and technology investments to create new and expanded
wood product markets.
Proposed Closures.—The Committee rejects the proposal to close
the Pacific Southwest Research Station and the International Insti-
tute of Tropical Forestry and directs the Forest Service to support
these facilities at not less than enacted levels.
Sulfur-Mercury Bioaccumulation Research.—The recommenda-
tion includes $2,000,000 to further mercury-sulfur interaction re-
search and the use of demonstration sites to advance pollutant pol-
icy to lessen the health impacts of mercury by removing sulfate
from water before it reaches areas where mercury has accumu-
lated.
Terrestrial Invasive Species.—The Committee supports research
activities that holistically address the harmful effects of terrestrial
invasive species through a coordinated approach utilizing expertise
in forestry, veterinary medicine, aerospace engineering, bio-
technology, agronomy, and applied economics.
STATE AND PRIVATE FORESTRY
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $346,990,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 217,443,000
Recommended, 2021300,296,000.
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... ¥46,694,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +82,853,000
The Committee recommends $300,296,000 for State and Private
Forestry. After adjusting for the forest legacy program, the rec-
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ommendation is $17,296,000 above the enacted level and
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$82,853,000 above the budget request. Funds are included to ad-
dress increased fixed costs.
Landscape Scale Restoration.—The Committee recommends
$14,004,000 for Landscape Scale Restoration, $4,000 above the en-
acted level and equal to the budget request.
Forest Health Management.—The Committee recommends
$101,136,000 for Forest Health Management, $1,136,000 above the
enacted level and $16,500,000 above the budget request. The Com-
mittee encourages the Service to address high priority invasive spe-
cies, pests, and diseases, including the Emerald Ash Borer and
bark beetle infestations.
Lake Tahoe Basin.—The Committee urges the Forest Service to
support the implementation of P.L. 106–506.
Cooperative Fire Assistance.—The Committee recognizes Forest
Service efforts to create fire-resilient communities through active
fuel reduction treatments and collaboration with State and local
fire agencies. The Committee recommends $83,000,000 for State
Fire Assistance, $1,000,000 above the enacted level and $1,853,000
above the budget request. The Committee recommends $19,000,000
for Volunteer Fire Assistance, $1,000,000 above the enacted level
and $2,000,000 above the budget request.
Lake Tahoe Basin State Fire Assistance.—The Committee is en-
couraged by the work to create fire-resilient communities conducted
in the Lake Tahoe Basin and urges the Forest Service to support
the implementation of P.L. 106–506.
Forest Stewardship Program.—The Committee recommends
$21,156,000 for the Forest Stewardship Program, $156,000 above
the enacted level and $500,000 above the budget request.
Great Lakes Forests.—The bill includes $600,000 for the Forest
Service to work with partners to educate natural resource profes-
sionals and private woodland owners on the effective land steward-
ship practices of lower Great Lakes native forests such as woodlot
management and agroforestry.
Community Forest and Open Space Conservation.—The Com-
mittee rejects the proposal to eliminate this program and instead
recommends $4,000,000 for Community Forest and Open Space
Conservation, the enacted level.
Urban and Community Forestry.—The Committee rejects the
proposal to eliminate this program and instead recommends
$40,000,000 for Urban and Community Forestry, $8,000,000 above
the enacted level.
Urban Reforestation.—The Committee recognizes there is a crit-
ical need to restore and improve urban forests due to catastrophic
losses from Emerald Ash Borer while building resiliency through
tree diversity and the protection of existing trees. Nearly eighty-
one percent of Americans live in urban areas where trees are crit-
ical to human health and to reducing the impact of climate change.
Of the funds provided within Urban and Community Forestry the
Committee directs an additional $2,000,000 to be used for reforest-
ation, to include tree planting, in urban communities most severely
impacted by the Emerald Ash Borer. This funding is to be in addi-
tion to funds otherwise provided to regions for the Urban and Com-
munity Forestry program.
International Programs and Trade Compliance.—The Committee
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rejects the proposal to eliminate International Forestry and instead
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117
recommends $18,000,000, $6,000,000 above the enacted level. In
addition, the Committee renames this program ‘‘International Pro-
grams and Trade Compliance’’ to better reflect the important work
performed to combat illegal logging and associated trade, protect
the U.S. against invasive species, conserve habitats of U.S. migra-
tory species, and mitigate zoonotic diseases.
Illegal Harvesting of Timber.—The Committee commends the
Forest Service’s work to combat the illegal harvesting of timber. As
an example of Forest Service efforts, the Direct Analysis in Real
Time—Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry is a chemical analysis
technique trusted by U.S. enforcement agencies to confirm the spe-
cies of wood products in suspected violations.
International Reforestation.—The Committee recognizes the im-
portant work of U.S.-based, non-profit organizations engaged in re-
forestation efforts around the world and urges the Forest Service
to collaborate with these organizations.
NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $1,957,510,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 2,005,062,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 2,057,353,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +99,843,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +52,291,000
The Committee recommends $2,057,353,000 for the National For-
est System, $99,843,000 above the enacted level and $52,291,000
above the budget request. Funds are included to address increased
fixed costs.
In addition to funds provided in this bill, the Coronavirus Aid,
Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) (P.L. 116–136) in-
cluded $34,000,000 for National Forest System to prevent, prepare
for, and respond to coronavirus both domestically and internation-
ally, to include cleaning and disinfecting of public recreation amen-
ities and personal protective equipment for first responders.
Urban Connections.—The Committee strongly supports the For-
est Service Urban Connections Program as a model for building
strong relationships with youth, interested citizens, urban leaders,
interagency partners, and non-government organizations. Within
National Forest System, the Committee provides an increase of
$2,500,000 for the Urban Connections Program to conduct region-
wide youth engagement and activities focused on outdoor recreation
and learning opportunities in Forest Service managed wilderness
areas. Partnerships with non-profit organizations serving youth
from diverse communities, including youth with disabilities, is
strongly encouraged.
Land Management.—The Committee recommends $180,601,000
for Land Management, Planning, Assessment, and Monitoring,
$601,000 above the enacted level and $737,000 above the budget
request.
Lake Tahoe Basin.—The Committee urges the Forest Service to
support the implementation and oversight of P.L. 106–506.
Northwest Forest Plan.—The Committee urges the Forest Service
to consider prioritizing forests where there are no matrix manage-
ment areas designated for ongoing, active management and timber
production when revising individual forest plans under the North-
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west Forest Plan. The Forest Service, in updating these plans, is
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encouraged to use the best available science to evaluate how new
matrix designations and raising current age restrictions on har-
vestable timber would improve forest health, promote habitat com-
plexity in second-growth forests for threatened and endangered
wildlife, and increase timber production to support rural economies.
Recreation, Heritage and Wilderness.—The Committee rec-
ommends $269,410,000 for Recreation, Heritage and Wilderness,
$7,410,000 above the enacted level and $5,781,000 above the budg-
et request. Funding is increased to improve the recreational experi-
ence on National Forest System lands.
Grazing Management.—The Committee recommends $58,367,000
for Grazing Management, $1,367,000 above the enacted level and
$144,000 above the budget request.
Hazardous Fuels.—The Committee recommends $510,000,000 for
hazardous fuels, $64,690,000 above the enacted level and equal to
the budget request.
The Committee directs the Forest Service to engage with stake-
holders and use the best science available on historical fire data,
landscape characteristics, and forest composition; the effects of past
and current human influences, such as development and land-use
patterns; and climatic conditions to identify ecologically-based for-
est health projects that reduce risks of catastrophic wildland fires.
The Committee, recognizing the great importance of fire risk re-
duction to increased forest and community resilience, is providing
a substantial funding increase to the hazardous fuels reduction
program. Within the amount provided, the Committee directs the
Forest Service to increase funding above the enacted level for eco-
logically-based forest health projects that reduce risks of cata-
strophic wildland fires and involve significant non-Federal (state,
private, and NGO) investment and stakeholder engagement.
Lake Tahoe Basin.—The Committee is encouraged by the haz-
ardous fuels work conducted by the Lake Tahoe Basin Management
Unit and directs the Forest Service to support the implementation
of P.L. 106–506 at not less than enacted levels.
Southwest Ecological Restoration Institutes.—The Committee di-
rects the Forest Service to continue support to the Southwest Eco-
logical Restoration Institutes at not less than the enacted level.
Forest Products.—The Committee recommends $383,051,000 for
Forest Products, $10,051,000 above the enacted level and
$1,949,000 below the budget request.
Vegetation and Watershed Management.—The Committee rec-
ommends $187,698,000 for Vegetation and Watershed Manage-
ment, $5,698,000 above the enacted level and $3,849,000 above the
budget request. Additional funding is provided to implement treat-
ments to increase the percentage of watersheds in properly func-
tioning condition and capable of providing clean water.
Lake Tahoe Basin.—The EPA has identified Lake Tahoe as a pri-
ority watershed. The Committee directs the Forest Service to sup-
port the implementation of P.L. 106–506 at not less than enacted
levels.
Landscape Management.—The Committee is concerned about the
increasing intensity of wildfires in our nation’s landscapes. Vegeta-
tion management includes controlling unwanted vegetation that,
when left unmanaged, has the effect of increasing intensity, rate of
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spread and the number of annual acres of landscapes burned. The
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119
Committee urges the Forest Service to engage State and local part-
ners on increasing the percentage of National Forest System land-
scape ecosystems improved, maintained, or recovering due to man-
agement actions.
Wildlife and Fisheries Habitat Management.—The Committee
recommends $142,808,000 for Wildlife and Fisheries Habitat Man-
agement, $4,808,000 above the enacted level and $3,189,000 above
the budget request.
Lake Tahoe Basin.—The Committee is encouraged by the habitat
work conducted by the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit and
supports the implementation of P.L. 106–506.
Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Fund.—The Com-
mittee rejects the proposal to eliminate this program and instead
provides $40,000,000 for the Collaborative Forest Landscape Res-
toration Fund, the enacted level.
Collaborative Partnering.—The Committee supports efforts to
proactively mitigate the threat of uncharacteristic wildfires
through preventative and restorative measures and recommends
new and increased direct investment in landscape forest restoration
efforts deriving from public-private partnerships, specifically 20-
year stewardship contracts and agreements for ecological restora-
tive projects such as Collaborative Landscape Restoration Program
and other collaborative restoration efforts. The Committee appre-
ciates the value of these long-term stewardship contracts and urges
the Forest Service to enter into such agreements with organiza-
tions that have adopted healthy forest goals. Therefore, the Com-
mittee urges prioritized Forest Service funding where there is op-
portunity for long term strategic improvements and successful en-
gagement of collaborative partners.
Mexican Spotted Owl.—The Committee is aware that the District
Court of Arizona’s injunction regarding the Mexican Spotted Owl
habitat has impacted forest management activities in Region 3, in-
cluding participants of the Collaborative Forest Restoration Pro-
gram and the Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program.
The Committee urges flexibility in deadlines and requirements for
projects affected by the injunction.
Wet Forest Resiliency.—The Committee recognizes the need to en-
sure forest resiliency and support multiple uses on national forest
lands. The Committee urges the Forest Service to incorporate a va-
riety of landscapes, including wet forests, as it develops future
projects for the Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Pro-
gram.
Minerals and Geology Management.—The Committee rec-
ommends $75,618,000 for Minerals and Geology Management,
$1,418,000 above the enacted level and equal to the budget request.
Landownership Management.—The Committee recommends
$76,549,000 for Landownership Management, $1,549,000 above the
enacted level and $540,000 above the budget request.
Communications Sites.—Federal agencies are charged with en-
suring that federal lands are made available to support the commu-
nications networks this nation relies on while also protecting the
natural beauty, habitats, and environment of these lands. Through
the Forest Planning process and site-specific project analysis, the
Forest Service provides multiple locations to expand the national
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broadband network. The Committee calls upon the Forest Service
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120
to continue to work with the National Telecommunications and In-
formation Administration to simplify and standardize permitting
regulations and requirements to ensure both timely action and re-
sponsible stewardship. The bill includes language to permit the
Forest Service to collect funds to cover the costs of administering
the communications site program.
Law Enforcement Operations.—The Committee recommends
$133,251,000 for Law Enforcement Operations, $2,251,000 above
the enacted level and equal to the budget request.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT AND MAINTENANCE
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $455,000,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 453,173,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 466,173,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +11,173,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +13,000,000
The Committee recommends $466,173,000 for Capital Improve-
ment and Maintenance, $11,173,000 above the enacted level and
$13,000,000 above the budget request. Funds are included to ad-
dress increased fixed costs.
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES
Act) (P.L. 116–136) included $26,800,000 for Capital Improvement
and Maintenance to prevent, prepare for, and respond to
coronavirus to include janitorial services.
Rural Airstrips.—Within the funds provided, the Committee di-
rects not less than enacted levels to support rural airstrips.
Facilities Maintenance and Construction.—The Committee rec-
ommends $157,501,000 for Facilities Maintenance and Construc-
tion, $3,501,000 above the enacted level and $5,000,000 above the
budget request. Within this amount, the Forest Service is directed
to spend $1,000,000 more than the enacted level for Air Tanker
Base repairs.
Lake Tahoe Basin.—The Committee urges the Forest Service to
support the implementation of P.L. 106–506.
Southern California Fire Cache.—The Forest Service is strongly
encouraged to expeditiously determine a new location for the
Southern California Fire Cache and to consider a transfer of any
excess land near the March Air Reserve Base in Riverside County,
California.
Smokejumper Base.—The Committee is aware the North Cas-
cades Smokejumper Base in Winthrop, Washington, is in need of
facility upgrades, improvements, and renovations to meet Federal
Aviation Administration compliance standards and requirements,
and understands the Forest Service has completed a Preliminary
Project Analysis that recommends maintaining the base. The Com-
mittee urges the Forest Service to devote the necessary resources
to ensure the base can maintain operational excellence.
Road Maintenance and Construction.—The Committee rec-
ommends $223,864,000 for Road Maintenance and Construction,
$3,864,000 above the enacted level and $2,000,000 above the budg-
et request.
Uwharrie National Forest.—The Committee looks forward to re-
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viewing the recently submitted report directed in P.L. 116–94 on
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121
upgrading roads within the Uwharrie National Forest. Following
necessary planning, survey, and design work, the Committee di-
rects the Forest Service to consider paving residential access roads
within the Uwharrie National Forest, working with the State and
surrounding communities to identify priority projects.
Trail Maintenance and Construction.—The Committee rec-
ommends $84,808,000 for Trail Maintenance and Construction,
$3,808,000 above the enacted level and $6,000,000 above the budg-
et request. The Committee urges the Forest Service to support in-
frastructure and trails development that builds the capacity of local
user groups and partnership organizations for all National Recre-
ation Areas administered by the Forest Service that were estab-
lished after 1997.
Legacy Roads and Trail Remediation.—The Committee continues
to recognize the need to remediate legacy roads and trails and di-
rects the Service to address these projects as they rank in priority
along with all other infrastructure needs from the appropriations
provided for roads and trails through the Capital Improvement and
Maintenance account.
National Scenic and Historic Trails.—The Committee directs the
Forest Service to continue to provide specific trail operation, main-
tenance, and construction funding and accomplishment data for the
national scenic and historic trails in future budget justifications.
LAND ACQUISITION
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $78,898,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 0
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 0
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... ¥78,898,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ 0
As explained in the front matter under the heading ‘‘Land and
Water Conservation Fund,’’ the Committee has not recommended
discretionary funding for the Land Acquisition account. Rather,
funding will now come from the Fund as a result of the Great
American Outdoors Act.
ACQUISITION OF LANDS FOR NATIONAL FORESTS SPECIAL ACTS
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $700,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 0
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 700,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... 0
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +700,000
The Committee recommends $700,000 for Acquisition of Lands
for National Forests Special Acts, the enacted level and $700,000
above the budget request.
ACQUISITION OF LANDS TO COMPLETE LAND EXCHANGES
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $150,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 0
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 150,000
Comparison:
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Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... 0
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +150,000
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122
The Committee recommends $150,000 for Acquisition of Lands to
Complete Land Exchanges under the Act of December 4, 1967 (16
U.S.C. 484a), the enacted level and $150,000 above the budget re-
quest.
RANGE BETTERMENT FUND
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $2,000,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 2,017,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 2,017,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +17,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ 0
The Committee recommends $2,017,000 for the Range Better-
ment Fund, to be derived from grazing receipts from national for-
ests (Public Law 94–579) and to be used for range rehabilitation,
protection, and improvements including seeding, reseeding, fence
construction, weed control, water development, and fish and wild-
life habitat enhancement in 16 western States.
GIFTS, DONATIONS AND BEQUESTS FOR FOREST AND RANGELAND
RESEARCH
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $45,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 45,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 45,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... 0
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ 0
The Committee recommends $45,000 for Gifts, Donations and Be-
quests for Forest and Rangeland Research, the enacted level and
the budget request.
MANAGEMENT OF NATIONAL FOREST LANDS FOR SUBSISTENCE USES
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $2,500,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 2,322,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 2,537,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +37,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ +215,00
The Committee recommends $2,537,000 for the Management of
National Forest Lands for Subsistence Uses in Alaska, $37,000
above the enacted level and $215,000 above the request. Funds are
included to address increased fixed costs.
WILDLAND FIRE MANAGEMENT
(INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $2,350,620,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 2,409,444,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 2,385,608,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +34,988,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ ¥23,836,000
The Committee recommends $2,385,608,000 for Wildland Fire
Management, $34,988,000 above the enacted level and $23,836,000
below the budget request. Funds are included to address increased
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fixed costs.
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The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES
Act) (P.L. 116–136) included $7,000,000 for Wildland Fire Manage-
ment for personal protective equipment for firefighters to prevent,
prepare for, and respond to coronavirus, domestically or inter-
nationally.
Wildland Fire Preparedness.—The Committee recommends
$1,374,608,000 for Wildland Fire Preparedness, $34,988,000 above
the enacted level and $23,836,000 below the budget request.
3D Technologies.—The Committee notes the potential for utiliza-
tion of new technologies that provide precise and complete 3D mod-
els of utility and vegetation risk contributing to wildfire propaga-
tion. The Forest Service is encouraged to evaluate such technology
in the context of on-the-ground preparedness and responses activi-
ties, with an emphasis on improving timely and safer access to the
disaster areas to quantify damage and establish response priorities.
Wildland Fire Suppression Operations.—The Committee rec-
ommends $1,011,000,000 for Wildland Fire Suppression Oper-
ations, the enacted level and the budget request. The recommended
amount is the fiscal year 2015 10-year average cost for wildland
fire suppression which is required for the Committee to provide ad-
ditional cap adjusted funding.
WILDLAND SUPPRESSION OPERATIONS RESERVE FUND
(INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)
Appropriation enacted, 2020 .............................................................. $1,950,000,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ....................................................................... 2,040,000,000
Recommended, 2021 ........................................................................... 2,040,000,000
Comparison:
Appropriation, 2020 .................................................................... +90,000,000
Budget estimate, 2021 ................................................................ 0
The bill includes $2,040,000,000 for the Wildfire Suppression Op-
erations Reserve Fund, $90,000,000 above the enacted level and
equal to the budget request. The Consolidated Appropriations Act,
2018 (P.L 115 141) included a budget cap adjustment for wildfire
suppression costs and this additional funding is included for fiscal
year 2021. Of the additional $2,350,000,000 available for fire sup-
pression operations, $2,040,000,000 is provided to the Forest Serv-
ice and the remaining $310,000,000 is available through a transfer
from the Department of the Interior. The Committee provides these
additional funds and authorities to ensure that sufficient funds are
available to protect American homes, lands, and wildlife from cata-
strophic fires without requiring a transfer of funds from the very
activities that advance forest health and prevent wildland fires.
The Committee expects the Forest Service to use suppression funds
judiciously and continue to work closely with the Office of Manage-
ment and Budget and the Department of the Interior to accurately
account for expenditures and recover costs.
COMMUNICATIONS SITE ADMINISTRATION
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
The bill includes language permitting amounts collected in fiscal
year 2021 for Communications Site Administration to be deposited
and subsequently transferred to the ‘‘National Forest System’’ ac-
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count.
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ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS, FOREST SERVICE
(INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)
The Committee has included administrative provisions that pro-
vide further direction on the use and transfer of appropriated funds
provided to the Forest Service.
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Indian Health Service
The provision of Federal health services to Indians is based on
a treaty and trust relationship between Indian Tribes and the U.S.
Government first set forth in the 1830s by the U.S. Supreme Court
under Chief Justice John Marshall. Numerous treaties, statutes,
constitutional provisions, and international laws have reconfirmed
this relationship. Principal among these is the Snyder Act of 1921,
which provides the basic authority for most Indian health services
provided by the Federal government to American Indians and Alas-
ka Natives (AI/AN). The Indian Health Service (IHS) provides di-
rect health care services in 25 hospitals, 50 health centers, two
school health centers, and 26 health stations. Tribes and Tribal
groups, through contracts and compacts with IHS, operate 22 hos-
pitals, 280 health centers, six school health centers, and 62 health
stations (including 134 Alaska Native village clinics).
INDIAN HEALTH SERVICES
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