H.J.Res. 138

119 HJ 138 IH: Expressing support for the designation of the second Saturday of January as “National Desert Day”.
 U.S. House of Representatives
 2026-01-08
 text/xml
 EN
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 IA  119th CONGRESS
  2d Session  H. J. RES. 138  IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES   January 8, 2026   Mr. Ruiz  submitted the following joint resolution; which was referred to the  Committee on Natural Resources    JOINT RESOLUTION
Expressing support for the designation of the second Saturday of January as  National Desert Day .
Whereas a desert is defined as an arid land with usually sparse vegetation, especially such land having a very warm climate and receiving less than 25 centimeters (10 inches) of sporadic rainfall annually;
Whereas there are 4 major deserts in the United States, which are the Mojave Desert, the Sonoran Desert, the Chihuahuan Desert, and the Great Basin Desert;
Whereas there is growing concern in the United States and globally for environmental protection and the threats to desert habitats and conservation initiatives;
Whereas all living things are intertwined by sharing ecosystems, and desert ecosystems contain biodiversity that only exist in deserts and rely on sustainable practices; and
Whereas deserts are among of the most significant ecosystems in the country due to their unique biodiversity, ecological functions, and cultural importance: Now, therefore, be it
That Congress—
(1)
supports the designation of  National Desert Day  and requests the President to issue a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States to observe such day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities;
(2)
acknowledges that deserts are a crucial stop for migrating birds to spend the winter and are part of supporting global biodiversity;
(3)
reaffirms its advocacy for native landscapes by committing to reduce invasive plant species and continue to maintain a pollinator garden;
(4)
honors the ongoing efforts by the United States to educate citizens on their role in conserving desert biodiversity; and
(5)
encourages the pursuit of policies that ensure the protection and preservation of the world’s deserts.