Martin Heinrich: “I ask unanimous consent that the Van Hollen substitute amendment, which is at the desk, be considered and agreed to; and…”

Given this administration’s obsession with development and disposal of public lands, it seems clear that this comment period is really just a ploy to weaken protections for public lands,

These roadless areas are irreplaceable, and the Roadless Rule is what protects them. Americans have been clear – repeatedly and across party lines – that we don’t want President Trump screwing with our public lands.

These equity acquisitions also create potential conflicts of interest for federal agencies because a significant portion of the planned mining operations are located on federal lands.

I want to say, from the bottom of my heart, as somebody who truly believes in the value and the importance of public lands and wilderness: thank you all for protecting this very special place.