Proposal to Sell Public Lands in Utah and Nevada Revived Amid Tax Reconciliation Bill
Washington, D.C. – A controversial proposal to sell approximately 11,000 acres of public land in southern Utah could resurface within the ongoing tax reconciliation bill in Congress. Senator Mike Lee expressed his support for reinstating the provision, stating, “Yes,” when asked if he would advocate for the land sale.
Lee’s office emphasized his commitment to empowering local control over land management, reflecting the needs of Utah residents. “Sen. Lee remains dedicated to advancing Western priorities,” a spokesperson noted, reiterating that those closest to the land should have a say in its management.
The proposal follows recent developments where the House eliminated language for a more significant land sale involving over 211,000 acres across Utah and Nevada. This removal was prompted by resistance from some Republicans, who threatened to oppose the entire reconciliation package. The initial amendment, authored by Utah Representative Celeste Maloy at the request of officials from Washington and Beaver counties, faced criticism from within the party.
Maloy stated she was unaware of any ongoing efforts to revive the land sale language during the Senate’s discussions on the reconciliation bill. With 63% of Utah’s land under federal ownership—the highest percentage in the nation after Nevada—the proposed sale represents a mere “one-third of one percent” of the state’s federal lands.
However, resistance remains among some Republicans, including Rep. Ryan Zinke, co-chair of the newly formed Public Lands Caucus. Zinke described the frustration in the West but advocated for management changes rather than selling public lands. “If you don’t like the management of a hotel, don’t sell the hotel. Change the management,” he explained, emphasizing a preference for reform over divestment.
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