Nevada Lawmakers, Environmentalists Oppose Land Sale Amendments in House Budget Bill
By Wyatt Myskow, Inside Climate News
Nevada’s congressional delegation, environmental groups, and local leaders are condemning a late-night amendment to House Republicans’ budget reconciliation bill that threatens state water resources and tribal sovereignty. The amendment seeks to sell over half a million acres of public land in Nevada and Utah to developers, sparking concerns over unsustainable growth, potential destruction of sacred tribal lands, and increased water demands on the already stressed Colorado River.
The amendment, introduced by Reps. Mark Amodei (R-NV) and Celeste Maloy (R-UT), lacks conservation provisions present in previous proposals like the Southern Nevada Economic Development and Conservation Act, which aimed to auction lands while ensuring public benefit. Critics argue this move, perceived as a "land giveaway," prioritizes developer profits over community needs. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) echoed these sentiments, calling it a reckless plan that would cut funding for crucial water conservation efforts.
Local officials, including those in Clark County, voiced opposition, urging responsible development aligned with environmental preservation. As the bill heads to the House for consideration, the implications for Nevada’s future remain a contentious debate.
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