Bill would permanently protect 9M acres in Utah

What does this do?

This bill would designate roughly 9 million acres of federally owned land in Utah — including red rock canyons and desert areas — as official wilderness. Once designated, no new roads, mining, drilling, or development would be allowed. Hiking, hunting, fishing, camping, horseback riding, and existing livestock grazing could continue.

Who does it affect?

The bill directly affects ranchers, mining and energy companies, outdoor recreationists, federally recognized Tribes, and state and local governments in Utah. Tribes would keep the right to use the land for traditional purposes.

Why does it matter?

Wilderness designation under federal law places permanent restrictions on how the land can be used, which would limit future options for resource development and infrastructure in those areas. State-owned land inside the wilderness boundaries would be swapped for federal land of similar value elsewhere in Utah.

Where does it stand?