Central Wyoming News

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) has expressed strong opposition to the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) finalized Public Lands Rule, stating that it poses a significant threat to the Wyoming way of life. Senator Barrasso, the ranking member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, criticized the rule for subverting the multiple-use requirement under the Federal Land Policy Management Act and blocking access to federal lands.

In a statement, Senator Barrasso emphasized the importance of public lands for the people of Wyoming, highlighting their role in livelihoods such as energy and mineral production, grazing, and recreation. He conveyed his concern that the rule, if implemented, would effectively turn thousands of acres of federal lands from 'multiple-use' into 'non-use.'

"The people of Wyoming depend on access to public lands for their livelihoods – including energy and mineral production, grazing, and recreation. With this rule, President Biden is allowing federal bureaucrats to destroy our way of life. Senator John Hoeven and I will introduce a Congressional Review Act resolution to repeal this outrageous rule," said Senator Barrasso.

Senator Barrasso had previously taken action against the BLM's proposed Public Lands Rule, introducing legislation to block it on May 3, 2023. He also addressed the proposed rule during a hearing with Interior Secretary Deb Haaland on May 2, 2023.

The opposition to the BLM's Public Lands Rule by Senator Barrasso underscores the concerns about the potential impact of the rule on Wyoming's economy and way of life. He and Senator Hoeven's plan to introduce a Congressional Review Act resolution reflects their determination to challenge what they see as a threat to the state's interests.