Ed Markey: “Monument designations do not take non-Federal land. The Antiquities Act only allows monument designations on land the…”

“Monument designations do not take non-Federal land. The Antiquities Act only allows monument designations on land the Federal Government already owns. There is nothing improper about these designations. This authority has been upheld by every court which has reviewed it since 1906. Monument designations do not lock up resources. Monument designations under the Antiquities Act grandfather valid, existing rights so any mining or other claim existing before the designation can still move forward. If Members object to the Antiquities Act of 1906, they should file legislation amending the act and then come on over to the Natural Resources Committee. Doc Hastings and I will be sitting there waiting for you to testify to make your case to amend the Antiquities Act. This amendment is based on an extreme ideology that the Federal Government should divest itself of the stunning national treasures managed by the Department of Interior and enjoyed by millions each year. Vote ``no'' on this amendment.”