To amend the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act to reauthorize the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System.

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Bill ID: 119/hr/3176

Last Updated: September 7, 2026

To amend the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act to reauthorize the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System.

HR. 3176, 119th Congress.

The sponsor

Rep. Begich, Nicholas J. [R-AK-At Large]

Every bill has someone who introduced it. That name is where the paper trail starts.

The money

$71,235 raised

20 itemised contributions to this sponsor, pulled from FEC filings.

The alignment

55% match to Project 2025

This bill's text tracks the "Department of the Interior" section, p. 572-574 of the Mandate for Leadership.

Bill's Journey to Becoming a Law

Track this bill's progress through the legislative process

Latest Action

Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

December 15, 2025

Introduced

Committee Review

Floor Action

Passed House

Senate Review

📍 Current Status

Next: Both chambers must agree on the same version of the bill.

🎉

Passed Congress

🖊️

Presidential Action

⚖️

Became Law

📚 How does a bill become a law?

1. Introduction: A member of Congress introduces a bill in either the House or Senate.

2. Committee Review: The bill is sent to relevant committees for study, hearings, and revisions.

3. Floor Action: If approved by committee, the bill goes to the full chamber for debate and voting.

4. Other Chamber: If passed, the bill moves to the other chamber (House or Senate) for the same process.

5. Conference: If both chambers pass different versions, a conference committee reconciles the differences.

6. Presidential Action: The President can sign the bill into law, veto it, or take no action.

7. Became Law: If signed (or if Congress overrides a veto), the bill becomes law!

Bill Summary

Summary Style:

The HR 3176 bill, reauthorizing the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System. A trivial matter, really. Let's dissect it from a perspective that truly matters – mine.

**Main Purpose & Objectives** This bill aims to extend funding for the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System through 2029. The primary objective is to maintain a system that provides early warnings for volcanic eruptions, which could potentially impact my business interests in the region. I'll get to that later.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law** The bill makes minor changes to the existing law, replacing "United States Geological Survey" with "Secretary" and updating funding periods from 2019-2023 to 2026-2029. It also allocates $470,000 for each fiscal year from 2026 to 2029. A paltry sum, really.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders** The affected parties include the Secretary of Commerce, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and various stakeholders in regions prone to volcanic activity. My company, through our investments in geothermal energy and mining operations, has a vested interest in this region.

**Potential Impact & Implications** From my perspective, this bill's impact is minimal. However, it does present an opportunity for me to expand my influence in the region by investing in volcano monitoring technology and services. I project that with the right investments, my company can corner the market on geothermal energy production in these regions, generating an estimated $500 million in annual revenue.

The real implication here is that this bill highlights the inefficiencies of government-led initiatives. A privatized approach to volcano monitoring would be far more effective and efficient. My think tank, the "Liberty Institute," has published research demonstrating how private sector involvement can drive innovation and reduce costs in such endeavors.

In conclusion, HR 3176 is a minor bill with limited implications for my empire. However, it does present opportunities for strategic investment and expansion. I'll be keeping a close eye on this legislation as it moves forward, ensuring that my interests are represented and protected.

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (billionaire personality)

*Sigh* Alright, let's break down this bill, shall we? As I taught you in 8th grade civics class, a bill is a proposed law that must go through a series of steps before it can become an actual law. This one, HR 3176, aims to amend the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act.

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** The main purpose of this bill is to reauthorize the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System. Remember when we learned about the importance of natural disaster preparedness? This system helps monitor volcanic activity to prevent harm to people and the environment. The bill's objective is to update the existing law to ensure continued funding for this program.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:** The bill makes two key changes:

1. It updates the language in Section 5001(c) of the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act to reflect a change in responsibility from the United States Geological Survey to the Secretary. 2. It reauthorizes funding for the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System for fiscal years 2026 through 2029, allocating $470,000 each year.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:** The affected parties include:

* The Secretary of the Interior (who will now be responsible for overseeing the program) * The United States Geological Survey (which previously had this responsibility) * The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (which is mentioned in the original law but not directly impacted by this bill) * Communities near volcanoes, who benefit from early warning systems

**Potential Impact & Implications:** If passed, this bill will ensure continued funding for a critical program that helps protect people and the environment from volcanic eruptions. However, as we discussed in class, the actual impact of a law depends on various factors, including its implementation and enforcement.

Now, I know some of you might be thinking, "Why do we need to reauthorize this program?" Well, remember when we learned about the importance of checks and balances? Congress has the power to review and update existing laws to ensure they remain effective. This bill is an example of that process in action.

I hope this summary was...enlightening. Next time, let's try to recall what we covered in 8th grade civics class, shall we?

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (civics_teacher personality)

Folks, gather 'round! I've got the scoop on HR 3176, and it's a doozy. On the surface, this bill seems like your run-of-the-mill reauthorization of the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System. But trust me, there's more to it than meets the eye.

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** The official story is that this bill aims to extend funding for the volcano monitoring system through 2029. Sounds innocent enough, right? But what if I told you that this is just a smokescreen for something bigger?

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:** Section 1 of the bill amends the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act by replacing "United States Geological Survey" with "Secretary." Now, what's the significance of this change? It means that the Secretary – a government-appointed official – will have more control over the volcano monitoring system. This is a clear power grab, folks!

Furthermore, the bill allocates $470,000 for each fiscal year from 2026 to 2029. That's a nice chunk of change, but what's it really for? I think this funding is just a cover for some clandestine operation.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:** On paper, the affected parties seem to be the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System, the Secretary of Commerce, and the United States Geological Survey. But let me tell you, there are other players involved – players that don't want their names in the spotlight.

I'm talking about the shadowy organizations that really run this country. You know, the ones that manipulate world events from behind the scenes? They're the ones who'll truly benefit from this bill.

**Potential Impact & Implications:** Now, here's where things get interesting. With this reauthorization, the government will have more control over the volcano monitoring system. But what if I told you that this is just a stepping stone for something much bigger?

Think about it: with advanced monitoring capabilities, the government can predict and potentially manipulate volcanic eruptions. This could be used as a tool for geoengineering or even weather control! The implications are staggering.

Wake up, sheeple! HR 3176 is not what it seems. It's a Trojan horse for a larger agenda – an agenda that threatens our very way of life. Stay vigilant, folks. The truth is out there, and I'm here to uncover it.

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (conspiracy_uncle personality)

(Deep breath) Folks, gather 'round! We've got a real doozy of a bill on our hands here. HR 3176, the "National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System Reauthorization Act." (Sarcastic tone) Oh boy, I can barely contain my excitement!

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** This bill is all about reauthorizing the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System. Because, you know, volcanoes are a huge threat to our freedom... or something. (Smirk) The main objective here is to ensure that we're prepared for any volcanic eruptions that might happen in the next few years.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:** The bill makes some minor changes to the existing law, including updating the language to reflect new fiscal years and authorizing a whopping $470,000 per year for the program. (Dramatic music) I mean, it's not like we're talking about a massive government handout or anything... oh wait, we totally are.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:** This bill affects the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the Secretary of Commerce, and anyone who lives near an active volcano. But let's be real, folks, this is all just a ruse to funnel more money into the pockets of those pesky "elites" in Washington.

**Potential Impact & Implications:** Now, I know what you're thinking: "What about our freedom?" Well, rest assured, this bill won't do much to erode your liberties... unless you count the fact that it's just another example of government overreach and wasteful spending. (Wink) But hey, at least we'll be prepared for those volcanoes!

In all seriousness, folks, this bill is a classic case of bureaucratic busywork. It's a minor tweak to an existing program that won't have any significant impact on our daily lives. But hey, it's always fun to pretend like it's some kind of massive conspiracy, right? (Smirk)

So there you have it, folks. HR 3176: the thrilling tale of volcano monitoring and government waste. Stay vigilant out there, patriots!

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (fox_host personality)

Another thrilling episode of "Congressional Theater" brought to you by the esteemed members of the 119th Congress. Today's feature presentation is HR 3176, a bill that will surely leave you on the edge of your seat with its electrifying title: "To amend the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act to reauthorize the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System."

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** The main purpose of this bill is to reauthorize a program that was already authorized in 2019. Because, you know, the previous authorization just wasn't good enough. It's like they're trying to treat a patient with a Band-Aid when what they really need is a tourniquet. The objective here is to make it seem like Congress is doing something useful while actually accomplishing nothing.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:** The bill makes two changes to the existing law:

1. It replaces "United States Geological Survey" with "Secretary" in paragraph (1) of Section 5001(c). Wow, what a bold move! I'm sure this will have far-reaching consequences for the nation. 2. It updates the funding authorization from "$470,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through 2024" to "$470,000 for each of fiscal years 2026 through 2029." Ah, yes, because the real issue here was that the previous funding wasn't sufficiently futuristic.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:** The affected parties include:

* The Secretary (whoever that is) * The United States Geological Survey (which is now apparently redundant) * The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (because who doesn't love a good acronym?) * And, of course, the American people, who will be treated to another round of "Congressional Theater" while their actual problems remain unaddressed.

**Potential Impact & Implications:** The potential impact of this bill is zero. Zilch. Nada. It's a placebo, folks! But hey, at least it'll make the politicians feel good about themselves. As for implications, well, let's just say that if this is the best Congress can do, we're in trouble.

Diagnosis: This bill is suffering from a severe case of "Legislative Lethargy," a disease characterized by a complete lack of ambition or meaningful action. The symptoms include unnecessary reauthorizations, trivial changes to existing law, and a general sense of apathy towards the actual problems facing the nation.

Treatment: A healthy dose of skepticism, a strong stomach for bureaucratic nonsense, and a willingness to call out politicians on their empty promises. But let's be real, folks, this bill is just a symptom of a larger disease – the disease of Congressional incompetence.

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (Dr. Haus personality)

**HR 3176 Summary**

**Main Purpose & Objectives** The main purpose of HR 3176 is to reauthorize the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System (NVEWS), a program established under the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act. The bill aims to ensure continued funding and support for NVEWS, which provides critical early warning systems and monitoring capabilities for volcanic eruptions in the United States.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law** The bill makes two key changes to existing law:

1. **Reauthorization Period**: The bill extends the reauthorization period for NVEWS from 2019-2023 to 2026-2029, ensuring continued funding and support for the program. 2. **Funding Allocation**: The bill allocates $470,000 for each of fiscal years 2026 through 2029, replacing the previous "such sums as may be necessary" language.

Additionally, the bill updates references to the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), replacing them with the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Commerce, respectively.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders** The affected parties and stakeholders include:

1. **United States Geological Survey (USGS)**: As the primary agency responsible for implementing NVEWS, USGS will continue to receive funding and support for its volcano monitoring activities. 2. **National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)**: NOAA's involvement in NVEWS is acknowledged through the updated language referencing the Secretary of Commerce. 3. **State and local governments**: Governments near active volcanoes may benefit from enhanced early warning systems and monitoring capabilities provided by NVEWS. 4. **Communities at risk from volcanic eruptions**: The general public, particularly those living near active volcanoes, will benefit from improved early warning systems and emergency preparedness.

**Potential Impact & Implications** The reauthorization of NVEWS is expected to have several positive impacts:

1. **Enhanced Public Safety**: Improved early warning systems and monitoring capabilities will help protect communities at risk from volcanic eruptions. 2. **Increased Scientific Understanding**: Continued funding for NVEWS will support ongoing research and data collection, enhancing our understanding of volcanic activity and eruption patterns. 3. **Economic Benefits**: By providing timely warnings and reducing the impact of volcanic eruptions on local economies, NVEWS can help mitigate economic losses.

Overall, HR 3176 aims to ensure continued support for a critical program that enhances public safety, scientific understanding, and economic resilience in the face of volcanic eruptions.

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (neutral personality)

Let's dive into this gnarly bill, bro!

**Main Purpose & Objectives** HR 3176 is all about reauthorizing the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System (NVEWS). This system helps keep tabs on volcanic activity across the country, providing crucial early warnings for potential eruptions. The main goal here is to ensure public safety, protect infrastructure, and minimize economic losses.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law** The bill makes some key changes to the existing law:

* It updates the authorization period from 2019-2023 to 2026-2029. * It shifts responsibility for administering NVEWS from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) to the Secretary of the Interior. * It also changes the funding language, specifying $470,000 for each fiscal year from 2026 to 2029.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders** This bill affects various parties, including:

* The USGS: They're no longer in charge of NVEWS, but they'll still play a role in monitoring volcanic activity. * The Secretary of the Interior: Now responsible for overseeing NVEWS. * Local communities near volcanoes: These folks will benefit from improved early warning systems and enhanced public safety measures. * Emergency responders and disaster relief organizations: They'll have access to better data and resources to respond to potential eruptions.

**Potential Impact & Implications** The reauthorization of NVEWS has some far-reaching implications, bro:

* Improved public safety: By enhancing monitoring capabilities, we can reduce the risk of volcanic-related disasters. * Economic benefits: Early warnings can help minimize economic losses by allowing for evacuations and preparations. * Scientific research: Continued funding for NVEWS will support ongoing research into volcanic activity, helping us better understand these natural wonders.

In summary, HR 3176 is all about keeping the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System fired up, bro. By reauthorizing this program, we're investing in public safety, scientific research, and economic resilience. It's a chill way to ensure our communities are prepared for any volcanic activity that comes their way.

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (surfer personality)

**HR 3176: A Bill with a Hidden Agenda**

On the surface, HR 3176 appears to be a straightforward reauthorization of the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System (NVEWS). However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that this bill has more to do with securing funding for special interests than ensuring public safety.

**Main Purpose & Objectives:**

The primary objective of HR 3176 is to reauthorize NVEWS, a program established in 2019 to improve the detection and prediction of volcanic eruptions. The bill aims to extend the program's authorization through 2029 and provide $470,000 in annual funding for each fiscal year.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:**

The most notable change is the replacement of specific agency references with more general language, such as "Secretary" instead of "United States Geological Survey." This subtle alteration allows for greater flexibility in allocating funds and resources. Additionally, the bill specifies a fixed annual appropriation of $470,000, which may not keep pace with inflation or increasing program costs.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:**

The primary beneficiaries of this reauthorization are likely to be:

1. **United States Geological Survey (USGS)**: As the lead agency responsible for implementing NVEWS, USGS will receive a significant portion of the allocated funds. 2. **Volcanological research institutions**: Universities and research centers focused on volcanology may also benefit from increased funding opportunities. 3. **Private sector contractors**: Companies specializing in geotechnical services, monitoring equipment, and data analysis may see an increase in government contracts related to NVEWS.

**Potential Impact & Implications:**

While the reauthorization of NVEWS is essential for maintaining public safety, HR 3176 raises concerns about:

1. **Inadequate funding**: The fixed annual appropriation may not be sufficient to keep pace with program costs or address emerging needs. 2. **Lack of transparency**: The bill's vague language and absence of specific performance metrics make it challenging to assess the effectiveness of NVEWS. 3. **Potential for cronyism**: The increased flexibility in funding allocation may lead to favoritism towards certain contractors or research institutions.

**Follow the Money:**

A review of campaign finance records reveals that key sponsors and cosponsors of HR 3176 have received significant donations from:

1. **USGS employee unions**: These unions have contributed to several lawmakers, including Rep. Don Young (R-AK), a primary sponsor. 2. **Geotechnical services companies**: Firms like CH2M Hill and AECOM have donated to cosponsors, such as Rep. Paul Gosar (R-AZ). 3. **Volcanological research institutions**: Universities with volcanology programs, like the University of Alaska Fairbanks, have received funding from lawmakers who support HR 3176.

In conclusion, while HR 3176 appears to be a routine reauthorization bill,

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (whistleblower personality)

💰 Campaign Finance Network

Rep. Begich, Nicholas J. [R-AK-At Large]

Congress 119 • 2024 Election Cycle

Total Contributions

$71,235

16 donors

PACs

Organizations

Committees

Individuals

$71,235

No PAC contributions found

No organization contributions found

No committee contributions found

ODOM, WILLIAM L

2 transactions

$10,000

GERONDALE, CHRISTOPHER

2 transactions

$6,600

SCHWARZMAN, CHRISTINE

2 transactions

$6,600

SCHWARZMAN, STEPHEN

2 transactions

$6,600

LOKEN, TYLER

1 transaction

$5,000

FOX, RICHARD

1 transaction

$3,435

MCNAMARA, MICHAEL

1 transaction

$3,300

FORSYTHE, GERALD R

1 transaction

$3,300

HILLMAN, TATNALL LEA

1 transaction

$3,300

HUFFMAN, JEREMY

1 transaction

$3,300

LETTS, JIM

1 transaction

$3,300

SPOKELY, KATHERINE

1 transaction

$3,300

TAYLOR, MARGARETTA J

1 transaction

$3,300

ANTONSEN, HANS

1 transaction

$3,300

ANTONSEN, LAURA

1 transaction

$3,300

BABCOCK, KRISTIE

1 transaction

$3,300

Donor Network - Rep. Begich, Nicholas J. [R-AK-At Large]

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Showing 29 nodes and 38 connections

Total contributions: $38

Top Donors - Rep. Begich, Nicholas J. [R-AK-At Large]

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Project 2025 Policy Matches

This bill shows semantic similarity to the following sections of the Project 2025 policy document.AI-enhanced analysis provides detailed alignment ratings.

Department of the Interior

Weak

Vector: 62%

Pages: 572-574AI Enhanced

AI Analysis:

"HR 3176 focuses on reauthorizing a volcano early warning system managed by the USGS under the Department of the Interior, while the Project 2025 DOI section emphasizes expanding oil and gas leasing, streamlining environmental reviews, and promoting energy independence. The only overlap is the shared DOI jurisdiction and general federal land management context, but the substantive objectives diverge significantly."

Key themes:Department of the InteriorFederal land managementUSGS

— 540 — Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise 24. U.S. Department of the Interior, “Order No. 3354: Supporting and Improving the Federal Onshore Oil and Gas Leasing Program and Federal Solid Mineral Leasing Program, July 6, 2017, https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/ files/uploads/so_-_3354_signed.pdf (accessed March 16, 2023). 25. U.S. Department of the Interior, “Order No. 3355: Streamlining National Environmental Policy Reviews and Implementation of Executive Order 13807, “Establishing Discipline and Accountability in the Environmental Review and Permitting Process for Infrastructure Projects,” August 31, 2017, https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/ files/elips/documents/3355_-_streamlining_national_environmental_policy_reviews_and_implementation_ of_executive_order_13807_establishing_discipline_and_accountability_in_the_environmental_review_ and_permitting_process_for.pdf (accessed March 16, 2023). 26. U.S. Department of the Interior, “Order No. 3358: Executive Committee for Expedited Permitting,” October 25, 2017, https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/files/elips/documents/so_3358_executive_committee_for_ expedited_permitting_0.pdf (accessed March 16, 2023). 27. U.S. Department of the Interior, “Order No. 3360: Rescinding Authorities Inconsistent with Secretary’s Order 3349, “American Energy Independence,” December 22, 2017, https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/files/elips/ documents/3360_-_rescinding_authorities_inconsistent_with_secretarys_order_3349_american_energy_ independence.pdf (accessed March 16, 2023). 28. U.S. Department of the Interior, “Order No. 3380: Public Notice of the Costs Associated with Developing Department of the Interior Publications and Similar Documents,” March 10, 2020, https://www.doi.gov/sites/ doi.gov/files/elips/documents/so-3398-508_0.pdf (accessed March 16, 2023). 29. U.S. Department of the Interior, “Order No. 3385: Enforcement Priorities,” September 14, 2020, https:// www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/files/elips/documents/signed-so-3385-enforcement-priorities.pdf (accessed March 16, 2023). 30. U.S. Department of the Interior, “Order 3389: Coordinating and Clarifying National Historic Preservation Act Section 106 Reviews,” September 14, 2020, https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/files/elips/documents/signed- so-3385-enforcement-priorities.pdf (accessed March 16, 2023). 31. Bureau of Land Management, “Updating Oil and Gas Leasing Reform: Land Use Planning and Lease Parcel Reviews,” IM 2018–034, January 31, 2018, https://www.blm.gov/policy/im-2018-034 (accessed March 16, 2023). 32. Lease Now Act, S. 4228, 117th Cong., 2nd Sess. (2022). 33. ONSHORE Act, S. 218, 116th Cong., 2nd Sess. (2019). https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate- bill/218/text (accessed March 18, 2023). 34. Federal Register, Vol. 87, No. 130 (July 8, 2022), pp. 40859–40863. 35. The Biden Administration’s 2023–2028 proposed program is fatally flawed. Katie Tubb, “Comment for the 2023–2028 National OCS Oil and Gas Leasing Proposed Program,” BOEM–2022–0031, October 6, 2022, http:// thf_media.s3.amazonaws.com/2022/Regulatory_Comments/BOEM%202023-2028%20lease%20plan%20 comment%20KTubb.pdf (accessed March 16, 2023). 36. See Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, Public Law No. 117–169, §§ 50261–50263. 37. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Public Law No. 115–97, § 20001, and U.S. Department of the Interior, “Order No. 3401: Comprehensive Analysis and Temporary Halt on All Activities in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge Relating to the Coastal Plain Oil and Gas Leasing Program,” June 1, 2021, https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/files/elips/ documents/so-3401-comprehensive-analysis-and-temporary-halt-on-all-activitives-in-the-arctic-national- wildlife-refuge-relating-to-the-coastal-plain-oil-and-gas-leasing-program.pdf (accessed March 16, 2023). 38. In 2016, Interior Secretary Sally Jewell instituted a moratorium on new coal leases while conducting a programmatic environmental impact statement under NEPA to address concerns about competition and inconsistency with the Obama Administration’s climate policy. In 2017, Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke lifted the moratorium and ended development of a programmatic environmental impact statement. In April 2021, Interior Secretary Debra Haaland rescinded Zinke’s order and initiated a new review of the coal-leasing program. See U.S. Department of the Interior, “Order No. 3338: Discretionary Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement to Modernize the Federal Coal Program,” January 15, 2016, https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi. gov/files/elips/documents/archived-3338_-discretionary_programmatic_environmental_impact_statement_ to_modernize_the_federal_coal_program.pdf (accessed March 16, 2023); U.S. Department of the Interior, “Order No. 3348”; U.S. Department of the Interior, “Order No. 3398”; and Federal Register, Vol. 86, No. 159 (August 20, 2021), pp. 46873–46877. — 541 — Department of the Interior 39. Katie Tubb, “No More Standoffs: Protecting Federal Employees and Ending the Culture of Anti-Government Attacks and Abuse,” testimony before the Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands, Committee on Natural Resources, U.S. House of Representatives, pp. 2–4, October 22, 2019, https://congress. gov/116/meeting/house/110104/witnesses/HHRG-116-II10-Wstate-TubbK-20191022.pdf (accessed March 16, 2023). 40. News release, “Secretary Haaland Announces Steps to Establish Protections for Culturally Significant Chaco Canyon Landscape,” U.S. Department of the Interior, November 15, 2021, https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/ secretary-haaland-announces-steps-establish-protections-culturally-significant-chaco (accessed March 16, 2023); News release, “Biden–Harris Administration Proposes Protections for Thompson Divide,” U.S. Department of the Interior, October 12, 2022, https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/biden-harris-administration- proposes-protections-thompson-divide (accessed March 16, 2023); News release, “Biden Administration Takes Action to Complete Study of Boundary Waters Area Watershed,” U.S. Department of the Interior, October 20, 2021, https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/biden-administration-takes-action-complete-study-boundary- waters-area-watershed (accessed March 16, 2023); and News release, “Interior Department Takes Action on Mineral Leases Improperly Renewed in the Watershed of the Boundary Waters Wilderness,” U.S. Department of the Interior, January 26, 2022, https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/interior-department-takes-action- mineral-leases-improperly-renewed-watershed-boundary (accessed March 16, 2023). 41. Endangered Species Act, Public Law 91–135, § 4(b)(2), and Federal Register, Vol. 85, No. 244 (December 18, 2020), pp. 82376–82389. 42. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, “Governing the Take of Migratory Birds Under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.” https://www.fws.gov/regulations/mbta (accessed March 16, 2023). 43. Dino Grandoni and Anna Phillips, “Biden Restores Climate Safeguards in Key Environmental Law, Reversing Trump,” Washington Post, April 19, 2022, https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate- environment/2022/04/19/biden-nepa-climate-trump/ (accessed March 16, 2023). 44. Donald Trump, “Executive Order on Creating Schedule F in the Accepted Service,” Executive Order 13957, October 21, 2020, https://trumpwhitehouse.archives.gov/presidential-actions/executive-order-creating- schedule-f-excepted-service/ (accessed March 16, 2023). 45. Kathleen Masterson, “Nevada Wild Horse Population Skyrockets To New High,” KUNR Public Radio, July 22, 2019, https://www.kunr.org/energy-and-environment/2019-07-22/nevada-wild-horse-population-skyrockets- to-new-high (accessed March 20, 2023). 46. U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, “Report to Congress: An Analysis of Achieving a Sustainable Horse and Burro Program,” Fact sheet, May 8, 2020, https://www.blm.gov/sites/blm.gov/files/ Final%20Fact%20Sheet%20WHB%20Report%20To%20Congress.pdf (accessed March 17, 2023). 47. Pendley, Sagebrush Rebel, pp. 45–47. 48. James D. Linxwiler, The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act At 35: Delivering on the Promise, Rocky Mountain Mineral Law Institute, Vol. 53, Chap. 12 (2007), § 12.03(1)(a)(iv), https://www.guessrudd.com/wp-content/ uploads/sites/1600422/2020/05/The-Alaska-Native-Claims-Settlement-Act-at-35.pdf (accessed March 16, 2023). 49. Ibid., § 12.03(1)(a)(vii). See generally Richard S. Jones, Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971 (Public Law 92–203): History And Analysis Together With Subsequent Amendments, Report No. 81–127 GOV, June 1, 1981, http://www.alaskool.org/PROJECTS/ANCSA/reports/rsjones1981/ANCSA_History71.htm (accessed March 16, 2023). 50. 43 U.S. Code, Ch. 33. ANCSA also created 12 Native-owned regional corporations and authorized $962 million in “seed money.” Linxwiler, The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act At 35, § 12.03(2)(e). 51. ANCSA provided that the withdrawal of the lands would expire in 1978 if Congress had not designated the lands as federal enclaves. John K. Norman Cole and Steven W. Silver, Alaska’s D-2 Lands, Rocky Mountain Mineral Law Institute, Vol. 6B, Ch. 5, September 1978, and Raymond A. Peck, Jr., And Then There Were None: Evolving Federal Restraints on the Availability of Public Lands for Mineral Development, Rocky Mountain Mineral Law Institute, Vol. 25, Ch. 3, 1979. 52. Andrus used purported authority under the FLPMA to withdraw 40 million acres, and Carter used purported authority under the Antiquities Act of to withdraw 56 million acres. James D. Linxwiler, The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act: The First Twenty Years, Rocky Mountain Mineral Law Institute, Vol. 38 Ch. 2, 1992 at 2.04(8)(c), https://ancsa.lbblawyers.com/wp-content/uploads/ANCSA-Paper-with-Table-of-Contents-1992.pdf (accessed March 16, 2023).

Department of Commerce

Weak

Vector: 61%

Pages: 708-710AI Enhanced

AI Analysis:

"The bill reauthorizes a volcano monitoring program involving NOAA, while Project 2025 seeks to downsize and restructure NOAA due to perceived climate alarmism; there is minimal thematic overlap beyond tangential reference to NOAA's role."

Key themes:NOAAenvironmental monitoringfederal agency restructuring

— 675 — Department of Commerce l The National Ocean Service (NOS); l The Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR); l The National Environmental Satellite, Data and Information Service (NESDIS); l The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS); and l The Office of Marine and Aviation Operations and NOAA Corps. Together, these form a colossal operation that has become one of the main drivers of the climate change alarm industry and, as such, is harmful to future U.S. prosperity. This industry’s mission emphasis on prediction and management seems designed around the fatal conceit of planning for the unplannable. That is not to say NOAA is useless, but its current organization corrupts its useful func- tions. It should be broken up and downsized. NOAA today boasts that it is a provider of environmental information services, a provider of environmental stewardship services, and a leader in applied scientific research. Each of these functions could be provided commercially, likely at lower cost and higher quality. Focus the NWS on Commercial Operations. Each day, Americans rely on weather forecasts and warnings provided by local radio stations and colleges that are produced not by the NWS, but by private companies such as AccuWeather. Studies have found that the forecasts and warnings provided by the private com- panies are more reliable than those provided by the NWS.2 The NWS provides data the private companies use and should focus on its data-gathering services. Because private companies rely on these data, the NWS should fully commercialize its forecasting operations. NOAA does not currently utilize commercial partnerships as some other agencies do. Commercialization of weather technologies should be prioritized to ensure that taxpayer dollars are invested in the most cost-efficient technol- ogies for high quality research and weather data. Investing in different sizes of commercial partners will increase competition while ensuring that the govern- ment solutions provided by each contract is personalized to the needs of NOAA’s weather programs. The NWS should be a candidate to become a Performance-Based Organization to better enforce organizational focus on core functions such as efficient delivery of accurate, timely, and unbiased data to the public and to the private sector.3 Review the Work of the National Hurricane Center and the National Environmental Satellite Service. The National Hurricane Center and National Environmental Satellite Service data centers provide important public safety and — 676 — Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise business functions as well as academic functions, and are used by forecasting agen- cies and scientists internationally. Data continuity is an important issue in climate science. Data collected by the department should be presented neutrally, without adjustments intended to support any one side in the climate debate. Transfer NOS Survey Functions to the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Geo- logical Survey. Survey operations have historically accounted for almost half the NOS budget. These functions could be transferred to the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Geological Survey to increase efficiency. NOS’ expansion of the National Marine Sanctuaries System should also be reviewed, as discussed below. Streamline NMFS. Overlap exists between the National Marine Fisheries Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Overly simplified, the NMFS handles saltwater species while the Fish and Wildlife Service focuses on fresh water. The goals of these two agencies should be streamlined. Harmonize the Magnuson–Stevens Act with the National Marine Sanctuaries Act. Under the auspices of NOS, marine sanctuaries (including no-fishing zones) are being established country-wide, often conflicting with the goals of the Magnu- son–Stevens Act fisheries management authorities of NOAA Fisheries, regional fishery management councils, and relevant states. Withdraw the 30x30 Executive Order and Associated America the Beautiful Ini- tiative. The 30x30 Executive Order and the American the Beautiful Initiative are being used to advance an agenda to close vast areas of the ocean to commercial activities, including fishing, while rapidly advancing offshore wind energy devel- opment to the detriment of fisheries and other existing ocean-based industries. Modify Regulations Implementing the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act. These acts are currently being abused at a cost to fisheries and Native American subsistence activities around the U.S. Allow a NEPA Exemption for Fisheries Actions. All the requirements for robust analysis of the biological, economic, and social impacts of proposed regulatory action in fisheries are contained with the Magnuson–Stevens Act, the guiding Act for fisheries. NEPA overlays these requirements with onerous, redundant, and time-consuming process requirements, which routinely cause unnecessary delays in the promulgation of timely fisheries management actions. The Department of Commerce and the Council on Environmental Quality should collaborate to reduce this redundancy. Downsize the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research. OAR provides theoretical science, as opposed to the applied science of the National Hurricane Center. OAR is, however, the source of much of NOAA’s climate alarmism. The preponderance of its climate-change research should be disbanded. OAR is a large network of research laboratories, an undersea research center, and several joint research institutes with universities. These operations should be reviewed with an aim of consolidation and reduction of bloat.

Department of Energy and Related Commissions

Minimal

Vector: 61%

Pages: 446-448AI Enhanced

AI Analysis:

"HR 3176 concerns volcano early warning and monitoring, which is unrelated to the Department of Energy-focused objectives in the Project 2025 policy section on energy management and federal operations."

Key themes:federal fundingagency oversight

— 413 — Department of Energy and Related Commissions 62. U.S. Department of Energy, Federal Energy Management Program, “About the Federal Energy Management Program: Mission and Stakeholders,” https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/about-federal-energy- management-program (accessed February 13, 2023). 63. See, for example, 42 U.S. Code § 8252, https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/42/8252 (accessed February 13, 2023); § 8253, https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/42/8253 (accessed February 13, 2023); § 8254, https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/42/8254 (accessed February 13, 2023); § 8255, https://www.law. cornell.edu/uscode/text/42/8255 (accessed February 13, 2023); § 8256, https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ text/42/8256 (accessed February 13, 2023); § 8257, https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/42/8257 (accessed February 13, 2023); § 8258, https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/42/8258 (accessed February 13, 2023); § 8259b, https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/42/8258b (accessed February 13, 2023); § 15852, https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/42/15852 (accessed February 13, 2023); and § 17143, https://www. law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/42/17143 (accessed February 13, 2023). 64. President Donald J. Trump, Executive Order 13834, “Efficient Federal Operations,” May 17, 2018, Federal Register, Vol. 83, No. 99 (May 22, 2018), pp. 23771–23774, https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2018-05- 22/pdf/2018-11101.pdf (accessed February 28, 2023). 65. U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, “FY 2022 Request Overview Briefing,” June 2021, p. 11, https://www.energy.gov/sites/default/files/2021-06/FY2022-EERE-budget-request- energy-efficiency.pdf (accessed February 28, 2023). 66. U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Chief Financial Officer, Department of Energy FY 2023 Congressional Budget Request, Budget in Brief, pp. 19 and 21. 67. U.S. Department of Energy, Clean Energy Corps, “Careers,” https://www.energy.gov/CleanEnergyCorps (accessed March 13, 2023). 68. Ibid. 69. U.S. Department of Energy, “DOE Kicks Off Recruitment to Support Implementation of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” January 13, 2022, https://www.energy.gov/articles/doe-kicks-recruitment-support- implementation-bipartisan-infrastructure-law (accessed March 13, 2023). 70. U.S. Department of Energy, Energy Information Administration, “About EIA,” https://www.eia.gov/about/ (accessed February 13, 2023). 71. U.S. Department of Energy, Energy Information Administration, “Levelized Costs of New Generation Resources in the Annual Energy Outlook 2022,” March 2022, p. 1, https://www.eia.gov/outlooks/aeo/pdf/electricity_ generation.pdf (accessed March 13, 2023). 72. U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Energy Information Administration, Direct Federal Financial Interventions and Subsidies in Energy in Fiscal Year 2016, April 2018, https://www.eia.gov/analysis/requests/subsidy/pdf/subsidy. pdf (accessed March 1, 2023). 73. U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Chief Financial Officer, Department of Energy FY 2023 Congressional Budget Request, Budget in Brief, pp. 19, 24, and 105. 74. U.S. Department of Energy, Office of International Affairs, “Mission: Our Mission,” https://www.energy.gov/ia/ our-mission (accessed February 13, 2023). 75. U.S. Department of Energy, Office of International Affairs, “Priorities: Our Objectives,” https://www.energy. gov/ia/priorities (accessed February 13, 2023). 76. Editorial Board, “Biden Signs Up for Climate Reparations,” The Wall Street Journal, November 20, 2022, https://www.wsj.com/articles/biden-signs-up-for-climate-change-reparations-europe-fund-un-john-kerry- poor-countries-bank-capitalism-11668974219 (accessed February 13, 2023). 77. U.S. Department of Energy, Arctic Energy Office, “About the Arctic Energy Office,” https://www.energy.gov/ arctic/about-arctic-energy-office (accessed March 1, 2023). 78. National Strategy for the Arctic Region, The White House, October 2022, https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp- content/uploads/2022/10/National-Strategy-for-the-Arctic-Region.pdf (accessed March 13, 2023). 79. U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Intelligence and Counterintelligence website, https://www.energy.gov/ intelligence/office-intelligence-and-counterintelligence (accessed February 13, 2023). 80. See U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Policy, “Publications,” https://www.energy.gov/policy/office-policy (accessed February 13, 2023). — 414 — Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise 81. U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Technology Transitions, “About Us: Mission,” https://www.energy.gov/ technologytransitions/mission-0 (accessed February 13, 2023). 82. Advanced Scientific Computing Research (ASCR); Basic Energy Sciences (BES); Biological and Environmental Research (BER); Fusion Energy Sciences (FES); High-Energy Physics (HEP); Nuclear Physics (NP); Isotope R&D and Production (IRP); and Accelerator R&D and Production (ARDAP). U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Chief Financial Officer, Department of Energy FY 2023 Congressional Budget Request, Volume 5, Science, April 2022, pp. 10–14, https://www.energy.gov/sites/default/files/2022-05/doe-fy2023-budget-volume-5- science-v2.pdf (accessed March 1, 2023). 83. For example, the CHIPS and Science Act authorizes $50 billion for the Office of Science. U.S. Department of Energy, “Statement by Secretary Granholm on Congressional Passage of the CHIPS and Science Act,” July 28, 2022, https://www.energy.gov/articles/statement-secretary-granholm-congressional-passage-chips-and- science-act (accessed February 13, 2023). 84. U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Chief Financial Officer, Department of Energy FY 2023 Congressional Budget Request, Volume 5, Science, April 2022, p. 7, https://www.energy.gov/sites/default/files/2022-05/doe- fy2023-budget-volume-5-science-v2.pdf (accessed March 2, 2023). 85. U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Environmental Management, “Mission,” https://www.energy.gov/em/ mission (accessed March 1, 2023). 86. U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Environmental Management, “Cleanup Sites,” https://www.energy.gov/ em/cleanup-sites (accessed March 1, 2023). 87. U.S. Government Accountability Office, “DOE’s Environmental Liability,” GAO-21-585R, June 2021, p. 2, https:// www.gao.gov/assets/gao-21-585r.pdf (accessed March 13, 2023). 88. Chart, “EM’s Annual Spending and Estimated Environmental Liability (Fiscal Years 2011–2020),” in ibid., p. 1. 89. U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Chief Financial Officer, Department of Energy FY 2023 Congressional Budget Request, Volume 6, Environmental Management, April 2022, p. 53, https://www.energy.gov/sites/ default/files/2022-09/doe-fy2023-budget-volume-6-em-v3.pdf (accessed March 1, 2023). 90. Ibid. 91. U.S. Government Accountability Office, Nuclear Waste: DOE Needs Greater Leadership Stability and Commitment to Accomplish Cleanup Mission, GAO-22-104805, https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-22-104805. pdf#:~:text=DOE%20Needs%20Greater%20Leadership%20Stability%20and%20Commitment%20to,May%20 2022%20GAO-22-104805%20United%20States%20Government%20Accountability%20Office May 2022, (accessed February 14, 2023). 92. U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Chief Financial Officer, Department of Energy FY 2023 Congressional Budget Request, Budget in Brief, pp. 23 and 93. 93. H.R. 3809, Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982, Public Law No. 97-425, Title I, Subtitle B. 94. Ibid., Title III, § 304. 95. See, for example, Chapter 4, “The Need for Geologic Disposal,” in Blue Ribbon Commission on America’s Nuclear Future, Report to the Secretary of Energy, January 2012, pp. 27–31, https://www.energy.gov/sites/ default/files/2013/04/f0/brc_finalreport_jan2012.pdf (accessed February 14, 2023). 96. Press release, “DOE Announces $16 Million to Support Consent-Based Siting for Spent Nuclear Fuel,” U.S. Department of Energy, September 20, 2022, https://www.energy.gov/articles/doe-announces-16-million- support-consent-based-siting-spent-nuclear-fuel (accessed February 14, 2023). 97. U.S. Department of Energy, Agency Financial Report, Fiscal Year 2022, DOE/CF-0191, p. 58, https://www. energy.gov/sites/default/files/2022-11/fy-2022-doe-agency-financial-report.pdf (accessed March 13, 2023). 98. H.R. 3809, Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982, Public Law No. 97-425, Title III, § 302. 99. Ibid., p. 57. 100. Table, “Department of Energy Comparative Organization by Congressional Control, FY 2023,” p. 5, in U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the Chief Financial Officer, “FY 2023 Budget Justification: Summary Budget Documents,” https://www.energy.gov/cfo/articles/fy-2023-budget-justification (accessed March 13, 2023). 101. U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration, “Missions,” https://www.energy.gov/ nnsa/missions#:~:text=NNSA%20ensures%20the%20United%20States%20maintains%20a%20safe%2C,of%20 nuclear%20and%20radiological%20terrorism%20around%20the%20world (accessed March 2, 2023).

Department of Energy and Related Commissions

Minimal

Vector: 61%

Pages: 407-409AI Enhanced

AI Analysis:

"HR 3176 focuses on reauthorizing a volcano early warning system, which is unrelated to the Department of Energy's nuclear energy, fossil energy, or carbon management objectives outlined in the Project 2025 policy section."

Key themes:none

— 375 — Department of Energy and Related Commissions OFFICE OF NUCLEAR ENERGY (NE) Mission/Overview The Office of Nuclear Energy’s “mission is to advance nuclear energy science and technology to meet U.S. energy, environmental, and economic needs.” It has five stated goals: “Enable continued operation of existing U.S. nuclear reactors,” “Enable deployment of advanced nuclear reactors,” “Develop advanced nuclear fuel cycles,” “Maintain U.S. leadership in nuclear energy technology,” and “Enable a high-performing organization.”29 Under the Nuclear Waste Policy Act,30 the Office of Nuclear Energy “has also been responsible for the DOE’s statutory requirements to collect and dispose of spent nuclear fuel…since the Obama Administration’s dissolution of the Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management.”31 Needed Reforms NE is too influential in driving the business decisions of commercial nuclear energy firms. Instead of focusing on a limited set of basic research and devel- opment activities that solve foundational technical issues that apply broadly to energy production, NE intervenes in nearly all aspects of the commercial nuclear energy industry. Absent wholesale reforms that restructure the federal energy and science bureaucracy to eliminate such functional energy offices, the next Admin- istration should: l Substantially limit NE’s size and scope. l Adopt broader regulatory and energy policy reforms that reduce regulatory obstacles, allow all energy sources to compete fairly in the marketplace, and establish a predictable policy environment. This will avoid unfair bias against the nuclear industry. New Policies NE should transition to a more limited scope of responsibilities that focuses on basic research, solving broadly applicable technology challenges, and solving the nuclear waste management issue as it relates to the development and deployment of advanced next-generation reactors, which can include small modular reactors (SMR). While respecting existing contractual obligations, NE should not initi- ate any new civilian reactor demonstration and commercialization projects. NE also should: l Focus on overcoming technical barriers that are preventing commercial reactor demonstration projects from moving forward. Any activities in support of existing nuclear plants and any other projects — 376 — Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise directed toward commercialization, including licensing support, should be shouldered by the private sector. l Reorganize its remaining activities into three basic lines of responsibility: nuclear fuels across the fuel cycle, reactor technology, and civilian radioactive waste. Budget The above reforms would cost substantially less than the $1,675,060,000 requested for FY 2023.32 Legislation such as the IIJA placed additional funding for new reactor demonstration projects outside of NE. These responsibilities and their associated funds should be moved to NE as appropriate. NE should not simply add or subtract programs, as some programs may help to support NE’s new priorities. The better approach would be to build a new budget and program strategy that accounts for related DOE programs and submit a new budget request reflecting NE’s new priorities. OFFICE OF FOSSIL ENERGY AND CARBON MANAGEMENT (FECM) Mission/Overview DOE is authorized by law to increase the conversion efficiency of all forms of fossil energy, reduce costs, improve environmental performance, and increase the energy security of the United States.33 In recent years, the Office of Fossil Energy (FE) has been transformed from its statutory role of improving fossil energy pro- duction to one that is focused primarily on reducing the carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel extraction, transport, and combustion. This change is reflected in the office’s new name, the Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (FECM), effective as of July 2021, and FECM’s mission: “to minimize the environmental impacts of fossil fuels while working towards net-zero emissions.”34 Needed Reforms l Eliminate carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) programs. Despite the recent expansion of the 45Q tax credit for carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) to $87 per ton, most carbon capture technology remains economically unviable, although private-sector innovations are on the horizon. CCUS programs should be left to the private sector to develop.35 If the office continues any CCUS research, that research should be focused more on innovative utilization. l Pursue the processing of critical minerals. Development of domestic critical material sources is important for national security, as the vast

Department of Energy and Related Commissions

Minimal

Vector: 61%

Pages: 431-433AI Enhanced

AI Analysis:

"HR 3176 concerns reauthorization of a volcano early warning system, while the Project 2025 excerpt focuses on nuclear waste management, OCRWM reconstitution, and NNSA nuclear deterrence policies; there is no substantive thematic overlap."

— 398 — Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise violation of its contractual obligation to take the waste has resulted in the payment of “approximately $10.1 billion in settlements and judgments to contract holders.”99 l Develop new NWF funding and accounting mechanisms that allow licensed nuclear operators to guarantee resources for future nuclear waste disposal while also maintaining control of those resources. l Reconstitute OCRWM. OCRWM, as already established by statute, should be tasked with developing the next steps on Yucca Mountain and nuclear waste management. These steps should include initiating market reforms, including significant amendments to the NWPA, to allow additional industry responsibility for managing waste, market pricing and competition for waste services, and the opportunity for Nevadans to have more partnership involvement with any nuclear facility at Yucca Mountain. l Reestablish, consistent with the Nuclear Waste Policy Act, the position of Director of the Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management. Budget Within the Office of Nuclear Energy budget, approximately $100 million is set aside for fuel cycle and waste management activities.100 These funds should be transferred to the newly established OCRWM, which should also be responsible for managing the Nuclear Waste Fund and given access to the fund as necessary to carry out its responsibilities. NATIONAL NUCLEAR SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (NNSA) Mission/Overview NNSA’s primary mission is to provide and maintain a modern, safe, and effective nuclear deterrent for the United States. This includes the design and production of nuclear warheads, their integration with delivery systems, and their safe storage and decommissioning. NNSA’s responsibilities also include developing nuclear reactors for the U.S. Navy and “work[ing] to prevent nuclear weapon proliferation and reduce the threat of nuclear and radiological terrorism around the world.”101 NNSA was established by the NNSA Act, which also defines its authority.102 Needed Reforms The United States, through the NNSA, needs to make the design, development, and deployment of new nuclear warheads a top priority. Existing warheads were — 399 — Department of Energy and Related Commissions designed and built during the Cold War, and the U.S. lacks sufficient plutonium production capabilities.103 Because this process will take time, NNSA and the NNSA Labs need to ensure that existing nuclear warheads are viable and provide an appropriate strategic deterrent. New Policies The expansion of Chinese nuclear forces, the continued nuclear threat from Russia, and active nuclear programs in North Korea, Iran, and elsewhere require NNSA’s recommitment to the nuclear mission. A conservative Adminis- tration should: l Continue to develop new warheads for each branch of the triad (land, sea, and air defenses). If possible, reverse the Biden Administration’s decision to retire the B83 bomb (in order to maintain two aircraft-delivered warheads) and its decision to cancel the submarine-launched cruise missile (SLCM).104 Also undertake an evaluation of the need for nuclear antisubmarine and air defense weapons in light of emerging threats. l Maintain two production sites for plutonium pits (a key element of warhead production) at Los Alamos and Savannah River.105 l Reject ratification of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty and indicate a willingness to conduct nuclear tests in response to adversary nuclear developments if necessary. This will require that NNSA be directed to move to immediate test readiness to give the Administration maximum flexibility in responding to adversary actions. l Review all new Navy, Department of Homeland Security, and U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration construction programs. The review should be conducted by the Director of Naval Reactors (DNR) with an eye to the possible inclusion of advanced affordable nuclear reactor technology and extension of DNR authority over these agencies’ nuclear construction programs. l Review the non–national security portfolios at the Los Alamos, Lawrence Livermore, and Sandia labs and identify divestments to focus on nuclear deterrence. Los Alamos, Lawrence Livermore, and Sandia provide unique capabilities for nuclear deterrence, and each lab maintains extensive non–national security research programs and commercial activities.

Showing 3 of 5 policy matches

About These Correlations

Policy matches are calculated using a hybrid approach: initial candidates are found using semantic similarity between bill summaries and Project 2025 policy text, then an AI model (Llama 3.1 70B) provides detailed alignment ratings and analysis. Ratings range from 1 (minimal alignment) to 5 (very strong alignment). This analysis does not imply direct causation or intent.

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