Central Wyoming News

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) delivered strong remarks during a full committee hearing to examine the budget request for the U.S. Department of the Interior for Fiscal Year 2025. The hearing included testimony from Secretary of the Interior, Deb Haaland.

Senator Barrasso expressed his concerns about Secretary Haaland's actions, stating, “The American people deserve much better than what we are getting…They deserve leaders who will uphold and honor the laws enacted by Congress – not take every opportunity to subvert them.”

Highlighting the impact of the Department of the Interior on his home state of Wyoming, Senator Barrasso emphasized the significance of federal land ownership and mineral rights in the region. He criticized Secretary Haaland's lack of awareness regarding key issues affecting Wyoming, such as the Rock Springs Resource Management Plan.

Senator Barrasso raised alarms about Secretary Haaland's alleged disregard for laws, particularly citing her failure to adhere to the Mineral Leasing Act. He pointed out a significant drop in lease sales and issued leases during Haaland's tenure, which he claimed could have detrimental effects on the economy.

Furthermore, Senator Barrasso criticized Secretary Haaland for what he described as lawless decisions, including the issuance of the Public Lands Rule and restrictions on oil and natural gas production in Alaska. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of upholding congressional laws and expressed his disappointment in the current administration's approach.

In conclusion, Senator Barrasso reiterated, “The American people deserve much better than what we are getting from this Secretary from this administration. They deserve leaders who will uphold and honor the laws enacted by Congress – not take every opportunity to subvert them.”