# Plain Language Summary of H.R. 50

This bill would strip the President of the power to create or expand national monuments in Arizona without getting Congress to approve it first. Right now, the President has the authority under federal law to designate national monuments on federal land pretty much whenever they want. This bill would change that for Arizona specifically, requiring that any new monument or expansion of an existing one would need to go through Congress and get a vote, just like passing any other law.

The practical effect is that Arizona would be treated differently from every other state in the country. If a President wanted to protect a scenic canyon or historic site in Arizona as a national monument, they couldn't do it on their own authority anymore—they'd have to convince Congress to pass a special law allowing it. Meanwhile, a President could still create or expand monuments in Wyoming, California, Utah, or anywhere else using their existing presidential powers. This creates an unusual situation where one state has different rules than the rest of the nation.

For people who live in or care about Arizona, this matters because it affects what lands might be protected from development or mining in the future. Those who want to preserve natural areas and historical sites would need to build support in Congress to get monuments designated, which could be harder than convincing a President. On the flip side, those who prefer to see land available for ranching, mining, or other uses would have an easier time blocking monument designations in Arizona since they'd only need to stop a bill in Congress rather than challenge a presidential decision.

To amend title 54, United States Code, to prohibit the extension or establishment of national monuments in Arizona except by express authorization of Congress, and for other purposes.

Rep. Biggs, Andy [R-AZ-5]

 <p>This bill prohibits any further extension or establishment of national monuments in Arizona except by express authorization of Congress. </p>