Housatonic Wild and Scenic River Act of 2022

The Housatonic Wild and Scenic River Act of 2022 would designate approximately 41 miles of the Housatonic River in northwestern Connecticut as part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System to preserve its natural and recreational character. The bill is designed to protect the river’s ecosystem while ensuring that local hydroelectric power stations can continue to operate and be relicensed without interference. To protect local property rights, the legislation prohibits the federal government from using eminent domain to acquire land, meaning any land additions must be made through voluntary donations or sales.