East Idaho Times

U.S. Senators Mike Crapo from Idaho and John Barrasso from Wyoming have introduced a new legislative measure aimed at protecting the policy of multiple uses on federal lands. This legislation seeks to block the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) recently finalized Public Lands Rule.

Senator Crapo emphasized the importance of involving local communities in decisions affecting their land, stating, “Idaho is fortunate to be home to some of our nation’s most unique landscapes and vast natural resources. We have a responsibility to ensure our local communities are consulted on decisions that impact the land on which they live and depend. The BLM’s rule goes against both congressional intent and the will of those who work, recreate or live on or near federal lands.”

The bill has garnered support from several co-sponsors, including Senators Cynthia Lummis from Wyoming, John Curtis from Utah, Jim Risch from Idaho, and Kevin Cramer from North Dakota.

The controversy centers around the BLM's final rule which contradicts its mandate under the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA). FLPMA requires balancing various uses of public lands such as recreation, energy development, mining, timber production, and grazing. The new "Conservation and Landscape Health" rule reportedly shifts agency priorities by placing a single use on par with these established uses mandated by Congress. Additionally, it emphasizes restrictive designations like Areas of Critical Environmental Concern that critics argue have negatively impacted land and water health across Western states.

Further details about this legislation can be accessed in its full text online.