Building Native Habitats at Federal Facilities Act

This bill aims to require the use of native plants in federal projects, promoting native plants over non-native varieties for landscaping in federal facilities and projects. Federal agencies would prioritize native plants given factors like cost, schedule, and product availability, while considering benefits such as habitat creation, support for pollinators, and reduced soil erosion.

If enacted, federal agencies would need to update their facility design and landscape standards to comply with the new focus on native plants within 270 days. The Council on Environmental Quality would provide guidance to federal agencies on using native plants within 180 days and publish reports every two years on best practices, scientific or environmental analyses, and efforts to promote native habitats. The bill would protect pollinators, conserve water, and reduce pesticide usage near federal buildings and facilities.

The bill is currently under committee consideration and has not yet been voted on by the full House.