U.S. House Approves Amendment for Public Land Sales in Utah
Washington County, Utah (ABC4) – On Wednesday, U.S. House Republicans passed an amendment authorizing the sale of thousands of acres of public lands on the West Coast, including portions in Utah. Proposed by Rep. Celeste Maloy (R-Utah) and Rep. Mark Amodei (R-Nevada), the measure seeks to convey approximately 11,000 acres across Washington County, Beaver County, and Nevada for local infrastructure projects.
Rep. Maloy stated, “Washington County and Beaver County are landlocked and growing rapidly, but are hindered by federal red tape.” She emphasized that the proposed sales would generate significant federal revenue while comprising less than a third of a percent of federal lands in Utah. The House Natural Resources Committee expressed that the sales would have broad local support and aim to alleviate local governmental constraints.
Local leaders in Utah support the amendment, citing urgent needs for water infrastructure and affordable housing. The City of St. George highlighted the importance of acquiring land for protecting well sites and expanding the Regional Water Reclamation Facility and airport. Washington City’s Legislative Affairs Director, Jordan Hess, noted the rising local home prices, advocating for legislation that could expand affordable housing opportunities.
Opposition arises from environmental groups, notably the Sierra Club, with Utah Chapter Director Franque Bains expressing concern about the long-term implications: “Thousands of acres that generations of Utahns have treasured could be sold to the highest bidder.” Bains cautioned against reckless land sales that might jeopardize proximity to national parks and conservation areas.
The amendment is part of a broader budget reconciliation package that is pending a vote. The federal government currently owns 64.4% of Utah’s land, generating substantial revenue through natural resource extraction. ABC4 is awaiting comments from Beaver County officials regarding the matter.
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