On June 28th, Senate Energy and Natural Resources Chair Mike Lee withdrew his controversial proposal to sell off public lands for development from the Senate reconciliation bill. The decision followed significant bipartisan pushback from Western legislators and widespread public opposition. In a statement posted on X, Lee expressed his belief that the federal government holds too much land and vowed to collaborate with the Trump administration to repurpose “underutilized” federal land for American families.
Jennifer Rokala, Executive Director of the Center for Western Priorities, hailed the withdrawal as a major victory for public lands advocates. The plan, which aimed to privatize public lands, sparked unity across political divides, highlighting the broad support for preserving America’s natural heritage. Rokala emphasized that the strong opposition signals to the Trump administration and anti-public lands lawmakers that selling off public lands lacks public support.
Despite this win, concerns remain about other provisions in the Senate budget bill. One measure would allow oil and gas companies to secure drilling leases on over 200 million acres of public land without public input, potentially enabling drilling across the Arctic. The Center for Western Priorities noted that the budget reconciliation process is ongoing, and they will continue advocating for public access and input in land management decisions.
The debate underscores the value of public lands in the West, including areas like the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, which support recreation, wildlife, and local economies. For updates on the reconciliation bill and public lands issues, follow trusted sources like the Center for Western Priorities.
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