Bonamici Calls for More Balanced Approach to O&C Land Management

Washington, D.C. –Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) today released the following statement explaining her opposition to H.R. 1526, the Restoring Healthy Forests for Healthy Communities Act sponsored by Rep. Doc Hastings (R-WA)

“There is no question that federal policy governing the management of O&C lands must change, and I applaud my colleagues Mr. DeFazio, Mr. Walden, and Mr. Schrader for the long hours they have devoted to this issue to try to reach a solution.

As I have said many times, we need a legislative solution that can pass both chambers and be signed into law. H.R. 1526 includes many beneficial provisions, including an extension of county payments through the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act and expanded protection for some wilderness areas. But the legislation has no chance of becoming law, in part because it does not adequately balance economic and environmental priorities.

Although I cannot support H.R. 1526, I look forward to continuing to work with my House and Senate colleagues on both sides of the aisle on a sensible compromise that appropriately balances economics and environmental prudence, can pass both chambers, and will be signed into law.”