Sponsors (2)
The bill advances protection and study of the Upper Raritan watershed—potentially preserving environment and boosting local recreation/tourism—while introducing possible development limits for property owners, new administrative coordination demands, and modest federal costs.
Residents and visitors near the Upper Raritan watershed would receive formal consideration for Wild and Scenic River protection, which could help preserve water quality and scenic character.
Local communities and small businesses could see increased federal attention and potential tourism and recreation activity, supporting local economic activity.
The bill requires the Interior Secretary to complete a study and report within three years of funding, improving transparency and providing a clear timeline for decision-making.
Homeowners and local governments could face new land-use restrictions or federal management if designation occurs, limiting certain development activities and property uses.
Carrying out the study and potential planning requires federal funding, meaning taxpayers shoulder the cost and other budget priorities could be delayed or reduced.
The study and any subsequent management planning could impose administrative and coordination burdens on local governments and stakeholders as they work with federal agencies.
Based on analysis of 2 sections of legislative text.
Adds the Upper Raritan River watershed in New Jersey to the list of river areas to be studied under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. It directs the Secretary of the Interior to complete a study of specified river segments and their tributaries and to send a report of the study to relevant House and Senate committees within three years after funds are made available to carry out the study.
Introduced December 17, 2025 by Cory Anthony Booker · Last progress December 17, 2025