Foxx’s “Preserve Land Freedom for Americans Act” Presented to House Natural Resources Committee

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Virginia Foxx (NC-05) Tuesday spoke in defense of states’ rights and local interests as she testified on her legislation, the Preserve Land Freedom for Americans Act (H.R. 382) before the House Committee on Natural Resources. H.R. 382 will protect against unilateral presidential land grabs by requiring state input and approval as part of the process whereby federal lands become re-designated as National Monuments.

“State governments and local citizens have invaluable perspective to offer when it comes to designating National Monuments in their backyards. Their voice needs to be included in the decision-making process,” Congresswoman Foxx said. “The Preserve Land Freedom for Americans Act recognizes that more voices will lead to a more accountable, transparent system for establishing National Monuments. By involving states and members of the public in the process, the federal government will make impactful land-use decisions cooperatively and with appropriate levels of input.”

Under the Antiquities Act of 1906 the President of the United States is able to unilaterally designate federal lands as National Monuments and restrict land usage in those areas. Public input and consultation with states and localities is not required to make these designations, which can jeopardize economic development, job creation, and state and property rights.

Foxx’s legislation will require approval by the governors and legislatures of states whose borders contain all or portions of land proposed for National Monument designation.  H.R. 382 will also require state approval and a public review period prior to the implementation of any restrictions on the public use of a National Monument. This provision will allow citizens in affected areas whose livelihoods may be impacted by changes in authorized land use to voice their concerns and ensure the federal government and state government consider all appropriate information before making new monument designations.

• Additional information on Foxx’s Preserve Land Freedom for Americans Act is available in this fact sheet.
• For a list of H.R. 382’s cosponsors, click here.
• To read a letter of support from recreation organizations click here.
• To read the text of the legislation, click here.