H.J.Res. 138

[Congressional Bills 119th Congress] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office] [H.J. Res. 138 Introduced in House (IH)] <DOC> 119th CONGRESS 2d Session H. J. RES. 138 Expressing support for the designation of the second Saturday of January as ``National Desert Day''. _______________________________________________________________________ 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 Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, 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. <all>