I 
119TH CONGRESS 
1ST SESSION H. R. 4791 
To exempt the United States Geological Survey from hiring freezes or 
reductions in force, and for other purposes. 
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
JULY 29, 2025 
Mrs. DINGELL (for herself, Ms. DELBENE, and Ms. STRICKLAND) introduced 
the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Natural Resources 
A BILL 
To exempt the United States Geological Survey from hiring 
freezes or reductions in force, and for other purposes. 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representa-
tives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, 
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. 
This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Keep USGS Strong 
Act’’. 
SEC. 2. FINDINGS. 
The Congress finds the following: 
(1) United States Geological Survey (USGS) 
plays a critical role in advancing our understanding 
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of the natural environment through its extensive re-
search and data collection efforts. 
(2) The USGS plays a vital role in studying the 
Great Lakes, which contain 20 percent of the 
world’s freshwater. Through monitoring water qual-
ity, invasive species, and ecosystem health, USGS 
research informs efforts to protect and restore these 
critical resources. Their work supports fisheries 
management, pollution control, and the mitigation of 
threats such as harmful algal blooms, ensuring the 
long-term sustainability of the Great Lakes for mil-
lions of residents. 
(3) The USGS operates a comprehensive na-
tionwide seismic network that continuously monitors 
earthquake activity. This data is essential for assess-
ing seismic hazards, informing building codes, and 
enhancing public safety through early warning sys-
tems. 
(4) Through detailed monitoring of surface 
water and groundwater resources, the USGS pro-
vides vital information on water availability, quality, 
and trends. This supports water resource planning 
and sustainable management across diverse regions, 
especially in drought-prone and rapidly urbanizing 
areas. 
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(5) The USGS’s topographic and thematic 
maps, along with its geospatial datasets, are funda-
mental tools used by government agencies, research-
ers, and the public. These resources support land 
use planning, environmental conservation, and dis-
aster response. 
(6) Beyond earthquakes, the USGS conducts 
extensive research on other natural hazards such as 
volcanoes, landslides, and floods. Their work helps 
predict and mitigate the impacts of these events, 
thereby reducing risks to communities. 
(7) The USGS leads long-term monitoring of 
ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and environmental 
health. This research informs conservation efforts 
and policies aimed at protecting biodiversity and 
natural resources. 
(8) The USGS assesses the availability and en-
vironmental impact of mineral and energy resources, 
contributing to the sustainable development of these 
critical materials. 
(9) The USGS serves everyday Americans by 
providing essential scientific information that di-
rectly impacts their safety, health, and quality of 
life. From monitoring earthquakes and floods to en-
sure timely warnings and disaster preparedness, to 
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tracking water quality and availability that affects 
drinking water and agriculture, the USGS’s work 
touches many aspects of daily life. 
(10) Their mapping and geospatial data help 
communities plan infrastructure and manage natural 
resources effectively, while their research on eco-
systems supports conservation efforts that preserve 
recreational areas and wildlife. By making this data 
openly accessible, the USGS empowers individuals, 
local governments, and businesses to make informed 
decisions that promote resilience and sustainability 
across the country. 
(11) The USGS’s multidisciplinary approach 
and commitment to open data ensure that policy-
makers, scientists, and the public have access to reli-
able, up-to-date information crucial for informed de-
cision-making and risk management. 
SEC. 3. EXEMPTING USGS FROM HIRING FREEZE OR RE-
DUCTION IN FORCE. 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the 
United States Geological Survey (in this section referred 
to as ‘‘USGS’’) shall not be subject to— 
(1) the Presidential Memorandum issued on 
January 20, 2025, titled ‘‘Hiring Freeze’’ or any ex-
tension of such Memorandum; 
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(2) any reduction in force of employees of 
USGS, or any other significant reduction of such 
employees, if Congress has enacted a law appro-
priating funds for the salary and expenses of such 
employees; or 
(3) any cancellation, without approval of the 
Director of USGS, of a lease of real property en-
tered into by USGS. 
Æ 
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