The Federal Government owns most of the land in Utah – making decisions without even consulting state and local officials. This is an outrage and is not what our federated system of government stands for. Over the years, we have had more than our fair share of fights with the Federal Government about how our land should be managed. It's just common sense that the people who are closest to the land and whose lives depend on being able to use the resources should have a seat at the table when it comes to managing it.  Unfortunately, this White House has ignored the people who are actually impacted by their bureaucratic decisions.
 
The Obama Administration’s "Wild Lands" designation gives the Bureau of Land Management the ability to close off lands in our state to everything and everyone without congressional approval. It is now easier than ever for the government to shut out oil and gas companies, mining companies, and ATV users.
 
This policy makes it clear that this administration would like to sidestep Congress in land management issues. It is the job of Congress to work with the local governments to determine which lands should be managed for multiple use and which lands are unique and deserve protection. I am fighting to keep that authority in Congress where it belongs.