Congress·Reported·H.R. 4284

Land Transfers: Small Cemetery Conveyance Act

Small Cemetery Conveyance Act

Legislative Progress

House

Senate

President

Law

This bill allows the Department of Agriculture to give away small pieces of federal land, up to 40 acres, that are already being used as cemeteries. This helps local communities gain legal ownership of burial sites located on federal property.
The land can be transferred for free to local governments, Indian Tribes, or historical community groups that have a long-standing connection to the burial site. This is especially helpful for traditional land grant communities in places like New Mexico.
The new owners must agree to keep using the land only as a cemetery. If the Secretary of Agriculture finds the land is being used for any other purpose, the federal government can take the property back.
The government can waive the usual administrative fees and paperwork costs for the transfer if the local group shows they have a financial need. This makes it easier for smaller or lower-income communities to take over management of their own cemeteries.

5 milestones10 actions

Jan 14, 2026House

Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 389.

Jan 14, 2026House

Committee on Agriculture discharged.

Jan 14, 2026House

Reported by the Committee on Natural Resources. H. Rept. 119-454, Part I.

Dec 17, 2025House

Ordered to be Reported by Unanimous Consent.

Dec 17, 2025House

Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held

Document Type

Congressional Bill

Official Title

Small Cemetery Conveyance Act

Bill NumberHR 4284

Congress119th Congress

ChamberHouse of Representatives

Latest ActionPlaced on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 389.

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R: 1

Congress.gov

Official legislative information

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