Utah Valley Times

The U.S House of Representatives passed the Western Economic Security Today (WEST) Act, a bill introduced by Representative John Curtis (UT-03), receiving bipartisan support. After the vote, Curtis emphasized the importance of protecting Utah's land, stating, "It is critical that Utah's land remains under the stewardship of those who have tended it for generations. The rule the BLM recently finalized undermines the very people who rely on our federal lands for ranching, grazing, recreation, and beyond."

House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) commended Curtis for his dedication to America's public lands, noting that the WEST Act will reverse a detrimental BLM rule threatening land uses in western communities. He highlighted the bill as a demonstration of House Republicans championing local voices.

Congressional Western Caucus Chairman Dan Newhouse (WA-04) criticized the Biden Administration's Conservation and Landscape Health rule, describing it as an attack on the Western Way of Life. Newhouse praised Curtis for leading the effort to overturn the rule, asserting that it hinders intended purposes like resource development, mining, grazing, recreation, and timber harvesting.

Curtis, known for his advocacy for public lands, expressed his concerns on the House floor, stating, "Utah's farmers and ranchers, for generations have worked on this land, leaving it better than they found it." He emphasized the importance of involving local land managers in decision-making processes, rather than Washington politicians.

The WEST Act aims to address the BLM's recent rule, which could limit access to federal lands for various uses. The final rule, criticized for potentially locking up lands indefinitely, has drawn backlash for its impact on local economies and public land users.

Curtis introduced the WEST Act in response to the BLM's proposed rule, with the bill requiring the BLM director to withdraw the rule permanently. The legislation has garnered support from governors and stakeholders who recognize the significance of maintaining access to BLM lands for economic and environmental purposes.