U.S. Senator John Barrasso, ranking member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, expressed his views on pending legislation at a committee business meeting in Washington, D.C. Senator Barrasso highlighted the importance of passing bipartisan bills and specifically mentioned the Pilot Butte Power Plant Conveyance Act, which he had introduced. The act aims to transfer ownership of a hydropower plant in Wyoming to a local entity that can repair and bring it back into operation.
In his remarks, Senator Barrasso emphasized the benefits of this transfer, stating, "The American people will no longer own a mothballed facility that would cost money to demolish. The people of Wyoming will be able to put the hydropower plant back into use." He also mentioned the Wyoming Public Lands Initiative Act, which aims to resolve the management status of federal public lands in Wyoming. Senator Barrasso stressed the importance of finding a balanced approach that allows for both preservation and multiple-use of these lands.
Senator Barrasso commended the collaboration of Wyoming County Commissioners in developing the bill, stating, "The bill, which I am proud to sponsor on their behalf, generally follows the recommendations of the 1991 report. It strikes a balance between protecting the places people in Wyoming love, while expanding multiple-use areas that our state and local economies rely on." He further emphasized that the bill was developed by the people who live near and will access the land when it is enacted.
In conclusion, Senator Barrasso firmly stated his belief that the people of Wyoming should have the authority to decide how to manage their lands, rather than Washington. He also noted his support for some items on the agenda while expressing opposition to others.
The remarks by Senator Barrasso shed light on the importance of local involvement and decision-making in managing Wyoming lands. The proposed legislation aims to transfer ownership of a hydropower plant to a local entity, allowing it to be brought back into operation. Additionally, the Wyoming Public Lands Initiative Act seeks to find a balanced approach for managing federal public lands in Wyoming, taking into account the needs of both preservation and multiple-use. Senator Barrasso's remarks underline the significance of empowering the people of Wyoming in determining the future of their lands.
To learn more, click on this link: https://www.energy.senate.gov/2023/12/barrasso-wyoming-not-washington-should-decide-how-to-manage-wyoming-lands
