HECHO Statement: Arizona Public Lands Are Under Attack by Bills Introduced at the State Legislature

HECHO stands firmly against several bills in the Arizona Legislature that will put the health and protections of the state’s public lands and waters at risk. These anti-public lands bills are scheduled to be voted in the House Land, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs Committee meeting on Monday, February 12th, endangering our newest national monument and the future of our federal lands and natural resources.

The HCM2007, sponsored by AZ Representative Leo Biasiucci, urges the president to revoke the designation of the Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni – Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument, protecting nearly one million acres of public lands surrounding this awe-inspiring natural wonder. 

"It is hard to understand the efforts to repeal the protection of this Arizona icon. This designation benefits everyone! This designation honors the ancestral homelands of the original stewards, the Tribes, ensures that generations to come can enjoy all the recreational activities this unique landscape offers, and safeguards vital water supplies for wildlife and people in the region," said Camilla Simon, executive director of Hispanics Enjoying Camping, Hunting, and the Outdoors (HECHO).  

The Antiquities Act of 1906 gives the President of the United States the authority to designate national monuments, which protect "historic landmarks, historic and prehistoric structures, and other objects of historic or scientific interest" in public lands. From Bears Ears to the Statue of Liberty to César Chávez's national monument, an equal number of Republican and Democratic presidents have protected national monuments that reflect America's natural heritage. 

The bill HCM 2008, primarily sponsored by AZ Representative John Gillette, calls for the Antiquities Act of 1906 to be repealed or amended to proclaim that entire landscapes, animate life, such as birds and mammals, and common plants and vegetation are not considered “landmarks, structures, or objects” under federal law.  

“The permanent protection of unique cultural, historical, ecological, iconic, and recreational lands and waters has tremendous social, cultural, and economic benefits, including but not limited to fostering connections between people and the outdoors, providing new opportunities for recreational purposes, and increasing local economic growth,” says Max Trujillo, HECHO New Mexico Field Coordinator. 

Arizona’s public lands are at risk. Let your voice be heard and reach out to the members of the House Committee, urging them to vote against these anti-public land bills.  

Press Releases/Statements, Grand Canyon, Monuments, WaterDaniela ZavalaPublic Lands, NAtional monuments, Arizona, grand canyon national monument, Grand Canyon, Outdoor RecreationComment