119-HRES-1144 Journalist Public Summary

Headline Summary

A bipartisan House resolution supports recognizing 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists and urges education, research, and outreach on sustainable rangeland management.

What It Does

This nonbinding measure expresses the House’s support for 2026 as the “International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists.” It highlights the economic and ecological importance of rangelands and the people who manage them (ranchers, pastoralists, land managers, scientists). It encourages federal agencies, universities, and organizations to promote education, research, and outreach on rangeland management. It does not change law or appropriate money.

Who’s For It

• Sponsors: Rep. Celeste Maloy, joined by Reps. Jim Costa, Tracey Mann, Evans of Colorado, King-Hinds, Russ Fulcher, Harriet Hageman, and Glenn Grothman (a bipartisan group).
• Their case: Rangelands cover a large share of U.S. land, support food and fiber (beef, lamb, wool), store carbon, provide wildlife habitat and recreation, and—when well managed—can reduce catastrophic wildfire risk and increase biodiversity.
• Intended partners named in the text: federal agencies, universities, and organizations engaged in rangeland science and outreach, along with ranchers and pastoralists.

Who’s Against It

• No formal opposition is on record at this early stage.
• Potential points of debate (if they arise): whether symbolic resolutions meaningfully help land stewards without funding or policy changes; and differing views about the net ecological effects of livestock grazing in sensitive ecosystems.

What’s Next

On March 27, 2026, the resolution was referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources and, additionally, to the Committee on Agriculture. Committees may hold hearings or markups; if reported to the floor, the House can vote. As a simple House resolution, it takes effect upon House adoption (it does not go to the Senate or the President).

Key Numbers Cited in the Resolution

Notes