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Flatside Wilderness Additions Act

10/29/2025, 6:08 AM

Summary of Bill HR 1612

Bill 119 HR 1612, also known as the Flatside-Bethune Wilderness Act, aims to designate the Flatside-Bethune Wilderness area within the Ouachita National Forest in Arkansas. This designation would provide protection for the area and preserve its natural beauty and resources for future generations.

The bill outlines the boundaries of the Flatside-Bethune Wilderness area, which covers approximately 6400 acres of land. Within this designated wilderness area, certain activities such as logging, mining, and motorized vehicle use would be prohibited in order to maintain the area's pristine condition.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the management of the wilderness area, including guidelines for protecting wildlife, managing recreational activities, and preserving the area's unique ecosystems. The bill also allows for the continuation of existing grazing rights within the wilderness area. Overall, the Flatside-Bethune Wilderness Act seeks to balance the conservation of natural resources with the needs of local communities and recreational users. By designating this area as wilderness, the bill aims to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy and benefit from the beauty and resources of the Ouachita National Forest.

Congressional Summary of HR 1612

Flatside Wilderness Additions Act

This bill adds specified lands to the Flatside Wilderness in the Ouachita National Forest in Arkansas. The bill also redesignates the wilderness as the Flatside-Bethune Wilderness.

Current Status of Bill HR 1612

Bill HR 1612 is currently in the status of Introduced to Senate since May 14, 2025. Bill HR 1612 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on February 26, 2025.  Bill HR 1612's most recent activity was Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 219. as of October 27, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 1612

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
0
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 1612

Primary Policy Focus

Public Lands and Natural Resources

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 1612

To designate the Flatside-Bethune Wilderness in the Ouachita National Forest, and for other purposes.
To designate the Flatside-Bethune Wilderness in the Ouachita National Forest, and for other purposes.

Comments

Cruz Parrott profile image

Cruz Parrott

439

6 months ago

I can't believe this new bill is gonna mess with my favorite hiking spot! Why are they trying to change things? I love exploring the wilderness and now this is gonna make it harder for me. Ugh, so frustrating!