As members of the U.S. House head home for the holidays, a number of bills remain stuck in committee. Conservationists say they are unlikely to pass anytime soon.

Among the stalled bills are proposals for parks and conservation areas and a measure sponsored by Arizona Congressman Raúl Grijalva to reform the nation’s mining laws.

Although a Senate version of his bill received a hearing last week, it’s unlikely to move forward in the House. 

"In terms of conservation, it’s pretty clear that this Congress is not going to get anything done," said Aaron Weiss of the Center for Western Priorities.

He said that House members are less likely to pass conservation bills while running for re-election.