Washington, D.C. — Today, the Senate voted 92-8 to approve S.47, the largest set of new protections for public lands since 2014. In response, Kate Kelly, director of Public Lands at the Center for American Progress, issued the following statement:
This measure represents a major step toward permanent reauthorization of the Land and Water Conservation Fund, one of the most powerful tools our nation holds to protect our open space and natural heritage. We applaud the Senate for getting back to the important work of protecting America’s public lands and waters for future generations. The package includes more than 100 bills to designate wilderness, advance protections for trails and rivers, and increase access to public lands for all Americans. In passing the bill and rejecting out-of-the-mainstream amendments that would undermine America’s conservation traditions, the Senate demonstrated that our lands, waters, and wildlife can still bring leaders together from across the political aisle. While the final bill includes some controversial provisions related to Alaska and Utah, we are hopeful the House moves quickly to advance this bill.
For more information, or to speak with an expert, please contact Sam Hananel at [email protected] or 202-478-6327.