WASHINGTON—Senator Mike Lee introduced the Federal Land Designation Requirements Act of 2012, which would limit the federal government’s power to make a variety of land designations, including national parks, national monuments, and national recreation areas. The bill requires the approval of the state legislature before the federal government can make any federal land designation.

“Federal and state authority must be balanced if we are to have successful land use policies,” said Senator Lee. “Too often, the federal government ignores the people’s rights to determine for themselves how best to utilize their own land. States with smaller populations, like Utah, end up with only a limited voice in Congress.  The process should include greater protections for states and local communities against unwanted and often economically damaging decisions.

“Requiring the federal government and state governments to agree on proper land designation balances the interests of all involved without interfering with the protection of areas that truly deserve protection.“

The bill is currently cosponsored by Senators John Barasso (R-WY), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and Rand Paul (R-KY).