By Sen. Jim Risch
I am proud to have led the charge against the proposal to sell Idaho’s public lands in the One Big Beautiful Bill.
The federal government owns nearly two-thirds of Idaho’s land and is often a poor and absent manager. But Idahoans spoke with one voice on this issue: selling off our public lands to the highest bidder is not the answer.
Public lands are an important part of our western way of life and a key driver of our economy. We can and should manage them more effectively.
Lands utilized for productive uses like timber production, grazing, and recreation will be the most resilient and allow future generations of Idahoans to continue to enjoy them. Increased local management of these lands is key to making this happen.
Removing the provision from the bill was the right thing to do, and the right thing for Idaho.
As your Senator, I will continue demanding greater local, more common-sense management of our public lands to ensure Idaho has a voice on decisions that impact our state.
POLL: Do you support greater local management of our public lands?
About Jim Risch
Jim Risch proudly represents the people of Idaho in the United States Senate. He currently chairs the Foreign Relations Committee and sits on the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Risch previously served as Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and State Senator. For the latest press releases and constituent services visit risch.senate.gov.
