Utah has filed a lawsuit challenging the federal government's control over 18.5 million acres of state land, gaining support from 12 states and several organizations through amicus briefs.
Kyle Dunphey reports for Utah News Dispatch.
In short:
- Utah’s lawsuit questions the Bureau of Land Management’s authority to hold “unappropriated” lands indefinitely without a formal designation.
- Supporters argue federal land control reduces state revenue opportunities and imposes restrictions on land use and taxes.
- The lawsuit, filed directly to the Supreme Court, is supported by briefs from states, political leaders, and organizations advocating for state sovereignty over public lands.
Key quote:
“Granting the relief Utah requests would begin to level the playing field for all western States, and restore the proper balance of federalism between western States and the federal government.”
— Amicus brief
Why this matters:
Utah’s case could impact land management across Western states, where the federal government holds large portions of land. A Supreme Court ruling could redefine state control over public lands and reshape federal-state dynamics in the West.
