1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern—and strong opposition—to the public lands sell-off provisions included in the Senate version of the so-called “One Beautiful Bill Act.” This bill, recently released by Senate Republicans would not only make severe cuts to Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and clean energy investments—it would also authorize an unprecedented and sweeping sell-off of America’s public lands to help fund tax breaks for billionaires. While the House of Representatives rightly rejected similar land sell-off language after bipartisan backlash—including from Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-MT)—the Senate’s version goes much further. The legislation now authorizes the sale of up to 3 million acres within five years and makes over 250 million acres eligible for privatization, including through nomination by any private interest. These are not empty plots of wasteland. The lands at risk include cherished recreation areas, vital wildlife habitats, hunting and fishing grounds, sacred cultural sites, and backcountry conservation lands. Alarmingly, the bill eliminates the longstanding requirement that land sales be evaluated for their environmental, recreational, or cultural value. It even removes the obligation to inform the public of what lands are sold—or to whom. This will devastate the $1.2 trillion outdoor economy! Public input is virtually nonexistent in this process. There are no public hearings, no transparency, and no opportunity for citizens to object before our shared lands disappear behind “No Trespassing” signs. Furthermore, the bill is riddled with loopholes allowing land intended for housing to be diverted to luxury development—without any requirement for affordability, accessibility, or infrastructure feasibility. Let’s be clear: this is not a housing solution. It’s an opportunistic land grab, thus it should not be allowed to reshape our national landscape behind closed doors. I urge you to oppose any version of this legislation that includes language authorizing the sale or privatization of our public lands. Protect our forests, deserts, mountains, rivers, and open spaces—for current and future generations. Vote no.