WASHINGTON – Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Historic Roadways Protection Act to safeguard roads that were vital in shaping Utah's rich pioneer history. This bill comes as a response to the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) decisions to close over 1,000 miles of roads in Utah, including many that have significant historical value.

Of the bill, Senator Lee stated, "These roads aren't just pathways; they're a testament to Utah's rich history and the pioneers who shaped our state. It's crucial that we ensure their protection so future generations can access their land.”  

 

“Motorized access to Utah’s outdoors is critical for local economies and for recreation opportunities," said Senator Curtis. “My legislation simply requires that we know all valid historic routes, which are critical to understand what areas can be accessed, before BLM makes further travel management planning decisions.”

 

Of the bill, Representative Kennedy said, “The Bureau of Land Management has a long history of overreach in rural Utah, and their attempt to make decisions about road access on public lands—before these roads are fully identified and established—is yet another overstep. I am pushing back with this legislation.”

 

“Millions of Americans enjoy exploring Utah’s public lands because they are accessible,” said Ben Burr Executive Director of BlueRibbon Coalition. “During the last four years, travel plans from the Bureau of Land Management have closed over 1,000 miles of spectacular county roads and backcountry routes that lead to dispersed campsites, scenic overlooks, and rugged adventures. Those exploring Utah’s public lands create substantial economic benefits for Utah’s rural communities. With the federal government under new management, we need a Grand Reopening of our public lands, and the Historic Roadways Protection Act is the proactive solution we need to reopen Utah’s public lands for Americans to enjoy.”

 

Key Points:

 

Historical Roads: An 1866 law allowed for the creation of roads on public lands to help with western settlements. These historically important roads remained even after Congress updated the law in 1976. Today, over 1,000 miles of roads are at risk of closure by the BLM, including hundreds of miles of these historic roads.

 

Legal Actions: 22 counties in Utah are currently in court, advocating for the protection of these heritage roads. Given the volume of roads under discussion and the importance of the outcome, the Historic Roadways Protection Act proposes a halt on any road closures until these cases have been decided.

 

Bill Specifics: Senator Lee's bill prohibits using federal money to enact or enforce new travel plans in Utah until all the historic road cases have been settled. Additionally, Sen. Lee's legislation pauses any previous plans by the BLM to change how these lands may be traveled until the courts reach a decision on the old roads.

 

 

For bill text, click HERE.

For a one-pager, click HERE.