“To require the priority and consideration of using native plants in Federal projects, and for other purposes.”
No CRS summary available for this bill.
This section establishes requirements for federal agencies to prioritize, where feasible considering cost, schedule, product supply, or scientific, historical, or educational purposes, the use of native plants over non-native plants in federal projects (i.e., agency construction or maintenance activities involving landscape planting at federal facilities in the United States, District of Columbia, or territories). Agencies must also consider benefits of native plants, such as habitat creation, support for pollinators and wildlife, reduced erosion and water use, and improved stormwater control; turfgrass and lawns are exempt from prioritization but agencies are encouraged to incorporate natives in suitable areas. This section further requires agencies, not later than 270 days after enactment, to (1) include these priorities in federal contracts and subcontracts to the maximum extent practicable; and (2) update agency-specific facility design standards, landscape, and maintenance requirements accordingly. Additionally, this section directs the Chair of the Council on Environmental Quality to issue guidance on native plant use and implementation not later than 180 days after enactment and every two years thereafter; and to publish biennial reports, beginning two years after enactment, including case studies, scientific analyses of impacts, and descriptions of federal promotion of native habitats.