A new analysis by the Center for American Progress (CAP) reveals efforts by a small group of congressional members to dismantle public lands, roll back conservation efforts, and prioritize industry profits. Dubbed the "antiparks caucus" by CAP, this group includes senators and House members who have introduced or co-sponsored multiple antiparks bills or signed legal briefs undermining presidential authority to protect public lands.
The CAP analysis categorizes nearly 40 bills as part of the broader antiparks agenda. These legislative efforts aim to:
- Undermine presidential authority under the Antiquities Act
- Overturn rulemakings prioritizing public interests over polluters on public lands
- Promote dirty energy development on public lands and waters
- Remove protections from designated landscapes
- Attack landscapes protected for endangered species
- Weaken enforcement of laws protecting clean air, water, and community health
According to CAP, these actions mirror the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025, an agenda designed for a future conservative administration.
“The antiparks caucus is already hard at work to increase the reach of oil and gas, erase land and water protections, overturn critical conservation rulemakings, and more,” said Sam Zeno, policy analyst for Conservation Policy at CAP. “They must be held accountable for these actions that are contrary to the values of their constituents who want to protect access to nature.”
For further details or expert commentary, contact Sam Hananel at [email protected].
