[Analysis of H.R. 5280]

In response to a congressional request, GAO analyzed a bill to prohibit the acquisition of certain lands adjoining the Upper Delaware River without express prior congressional authorization. The National Parks and Recreation Act authorized the Secretary of the Interior to acquire land and develop sites for the preservation of scenic qualities and other purposes. Because residents of the Upper Delaware River area are concerned that the Secretary may attempt to acquire the maximum amount of land or interests in land currently authorized, a bill was designed to constrain the Secretary's discretion to acquire lands or interests in land adjoining the Upper Delaware River. Pursuant to the bill, if enacted, the Secretary could only acquire land without the owner's consent if Congress adopts legislation expressly authorizing a proposed land acquisition and specifically appropriates the monies therefor.