January 31, 2025
Mr. Soto (for himself, Mr. Bilirakis, Mr. Frost, Ms. Castor of Florida, and Ms. Wilson of Florida) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Natural Resources
To direct the Director of the United States Geological Survey to establish a program to map zones that are at greater risk of sinkhole formation, and for other purposes.
Section 1. Short title
This Act may be cited as the Sinkhole Mapping Act of 2025
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Sec. 2. Sinkhole hazard identification
(a) In general
The Director of the United States Geological Survey shall establish a program to—
(1)
study the short-term and long-term mechanisms that cause sinkholes, including extreme storm events, prolonged droughts causing shifts in water management practices, aquifer depletion, and other major changes in water use; and
(2)
develop maps that depict zones that are at greater risk of sinkhole formation.
(b) Use of certain data
In developing maps under subsection (a)(2), the Director of the United States Geological Survey shall utilize 3D elevation data (as that term is defined in section 2 of the National Landslide Preparedness Act (43 U.S.C. 3101)) collected pursuant to section 5 of that Act (43 U.S.C. 3104).
(c) Review of maps
Once during each 5-year period, or more often as the Director of the United States Geological Survey determines is necessary, the Director shall assess the need to revise and update the maps developed under this section.
(d) Website
The Director of the United States Geological Survey shall establish and maintain a public website that displays the maps developed under this section and other relevant information critical for use by community planners and emergency managers.