America’s public lands should not be sold to reconcile the mismanaged federal budget, says U.S. Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ), who recently proposed a bipartisan bill to end the sale of publicly owned lands through the budget reconciliation process.
“Our public lands should never be subject to backroom deals or rushed budget negotiations,” Rep. Ciscomani said on Friday. “Selling or disposing of them through reconciliation is the wrong approach.”
The congressman on June 5 cosponsored the Public Lands Integrity Act, H.R. 9167, alongside bill sponsor U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D-NM) to designate any reconciliation provision resulting in the sale or disposal of federal public lands as “extraneous” under the Byrd Rule.
“The Public Lands Integrity Act ensures decisions about our public lands are made openly, through regular order, and with full public input,” said Rep. Ciscomani, a member of the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus. “This legislation protects these treasured spaces and helps ensure future generations can experience and enjoy the same natural beauty that makes Arizona and our country so special.”
Additionally, H.R. 9167 would ensure decisions regarding the future of federal public lands are considered through regular legislative order rather than expedited budget procedures, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Ciscomani’s staff.
“Public lands are America’s best idea, and they belong to all of us and must remain in the public trust,” said Rep. Vasquez. “Treating public lands as another item on a balance sheet goes against the will of the people, and Americans have made it clear that our public lands are not for sale.”
Several stakeholders support the measure, including Trout Unlimited, the Arizona Trail Association, and the Arizona Wildlife Federation.