Nominee’s policies under the Clinton Administration failed Wyoming

WASHINGTON – Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) questioned the rationale of bringing back Obama nominee David Hayes, former Deputy Secretary of the Interior under Bruce Babbitt.  

Barrasso pressed for a commitment from the nominee to work with Wyoming, not revert to the policies out of touch with the West.

“It is time that the Department of Interior consider the needs and practicalities of the land, the people and the communities directly affected by its policy decisions,” Barrasso said. “This must be the Department’s first priority.”

“Participation of local communities and stakeholders should be encouraged, not ignored.”

 

Key Issues

Wolves

“Gray wolves were reintroduced into the Wyoming landscape without regard to many of the people who live there.” 

“The Clinton Administration created this problem. The Bush Administration failed to solve it. Now the Obama Administration has refused to deal with it.”

Access to Public Lands

“Federal lands were set aside for multiple use. That means grazing, timber, recreation, water, mining and wildlife all have standing.”

“It is high time that Washington commits to developing commonsense policies by providing funds and manpower to maintain access to these lands while managing our scenic treasures.”

 

Indian Economic Development

“Wyoming’s Wind River Reservation, and many others in Indian Country, has a great need for economic development. Standing in the way are burdensome, duplicative, and overly restrictive federal regulations.”

"We must allow Indian communities succeed. And to do that, we must get the government out of the way.”

 

Grazing

“Family ranchers in Wyoming and many western states where private and public lands intertwine depend on access to grazing permits.”

“Washington’s permit process has become an obstacle course. Restrictions and regulations are hurting these families’ livelihoods. Washington’s red tape must not put our family ranches out of business.”