A bill to prohibit Big Cypress National Preserve from being designated as wilderness or as a component of the National Wilderness Preservation System, and for other purposes.

# Bill Summary: Big Cypress National Preserve Wilderness Restriction **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would prevent Big Cypress National Preserve in Florida from ever being designated as a wilderness area or added to the National Wilderness Preservation System. Big Cypress is a 729,000-acre freshwater swamp currently managed by the National Park Service. The key difference is that wilderness designations typically ban development, commercial activities, permanent structures, and roads, while preserves like Big Cypress can allow certain activities such as hunting and oil and gas exploration. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily impacts Florida residents and stakeholders interested in how Big Cypress is managed and used.

This includes environmental groups that advocate for wilderness protection, energy companies interested in resource development, hunters and outdoor recreationists, and conservation organizations focused on the swamp ecosystem and its wildlife. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced by Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. No action has been taken on the measure at this time.