House Republicans Propose Controversial Land Sales Amid Tax Cut Package Debate
WASHINGTON (AP) — A recent addition to the House Republicans’ tax cut package has sparked controversy by proposing the sale of thousands of acres of public lands in Nevada and Utah. The measure, adopted by the House Natural Resources Committee, has drawn ire from Democrats and environmental advocates, who label it a detrimental move that could facilitate increased drilling, mining, and logging in the Western U.S.
The land sale proposal was introduced by Republican Representatives Mark Amodei of Nevada and Celeste Maloy of Utah, and includes plans for certain parcels to be considered for affordable housing projects. Notably, Colorado Republican Rep. Jeff Hurd opposed the provision, while Rep. Joe Neguse of Colorado labeled it “deeply irresponsible.” Athan Manuel, director of the Sierra Club’s Lands Protection Program, condemned the effort, asserting that public lands should remain publicly managed rather than being sold to corporate interests.
The proposal came as the Natural Resources Committee voted 26-17 in favor of legislation permitting increased leasing of public lands for resource extraction and streamlining government approvals. The bill also suggests reducing royalty rates for companies involved in extracting oil, gas, and coal, reversing measures taken during the Biden administration aimed at addressing climate change.
While proponents argue that the reduced revenues would be offset by increased development, skepticism remains about whether companies will seek these leases as the industry shifts toward renewable energy.
As the debate unfolds, bipartisan leaders are forming a Public Lands Caucus dedicated to protecting U.S. public lands. The overall tax cut package is expected to be advanced by House Speaker Mike Johnson before Memorial Day, amidst heated discussions about the future of America’s natural resources.
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