House of Rep failed to pass S. 22, the Omnibus Public Land Management Act, But

March 13, 2009 – On March 11, 2009, the House of Representatives failed to pass S. 22, the Omnibus Public Land Management Act that would ban OHV access to over two million acres of public lands. ARRA members sent thousands of letters to the House opposing this legislation. We commend you for your hard work and dedication!

As you know, this legislation includes 160 public lands measures including the National Landscape Conservation System (NLCS) Act. The bill would create more than two million acres of wilderness while authorizing dozens of studies for potential parks, protected rivers and historical landmarks in addition to statutorily establishing the NLCS. The NLCS consists of 26 million acres of specially designated Bureau of Land Management lands and if codified by law would almost certainly lead to these lands being managed in a more restrictive manner.

Though this is a positive step for OHV access on public lands, our work is never done. While the bill failed to pass, a majority of Representatives voted in favor of passage by a count of 282-144. Since S. 22 was brought up as a “suspension bill” to thwart the possibility of amendments, it needed a 2/3 majority to pass. The House may decide to bring this bill up again in the coming weeks and allow amendments to be introduced in order to only require a simple majority for passage.

ARRA will again ask for your help if this legislation comes up for another vote. Remember, it is more important than ever for you to stay involved and urge your Representative to oppose this NLCS legislation, as this victory demonstrates that your voices are being heard.