S 3444 · 95th Congress · Public Lands and Natural Resources

To repeal the Color of Title Act; to establish standards and procedures whereby certain persons in adverse possession of public lands may acquire legal title thereto; and for other purposes.

Introduced 1978-08-22· Sponsored by Sen. Hatfield, Mark O. [R-OR]· Senate

Bill Progress

Introduced
2
Committee
3
Senate Vote
4
House
5
Enacted
Latest: Referred to Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.(1978-08-22)

Plain Language Summary

[AI summary unavailable — showing source text] Permits any person, association, partnership or corporation in adverse possession of public lands to obtain a patent to such lands from the Secretary of the Interior. Sets forth the information to be included in a petition for such a patent. Directs the Secretary to grant a patent to public lands if the petitioner, the petitioner's ancestors, or grantors have held such lands: (1) under color of title, meaning the semblance or appearance of title; (2) in good faith at the time of acquisition of color of title; (3) peacefully for at least 20 years; and (4) have improved or cultivated such lands. Establishes procedures for the review of such petitions. Directs the Secretary, upon a determination that the petition is sufficient, to issue a patent for the interest claimed in an area of public land 50 acres or less upon the payment of $1.25 or less per acre. Grants the Secretary the option of issuing a patent for more than 50 acres upon the payment of the required fee. Requires the Secretary to obtain the consent of other Federal agencies to a patent award if a claim under this Act interferes with functions of such agencies. Authorizes the Secretary to issue a patent to a comparable trac…

Summarized by Claude AI · Non-partisan · For informational purposes only

Cosponsors (6)

1 Democrat5 Republicans