House adopts resolution urging federal stewardship of national public lands

The Colorado House on March 19 adopted Senate Joint Resolution 9, a measure declaring support for keeping national public lands in federal hands and urging Colorado’s governor, attorney general and congressional delegation to oppose efforts to sell, transfer or dispose of federal public lands.

Representative Nick Taggart, a co‑sponsor of the resolution, described the matter as personal and economic for many Coloradans, saying “These lands are critical to us” and noting outdoor recreation’s contribution to local economies. The resolution cites data and examples of federal public‑lands types and their benefits to Colorado communities.

Representative Luck recorded a no vote on the resolution and explained his opposition. Luck said the resolution’s language focuses on lands “stewarded by the national government” and that some neighboring states are seeking state‑level stewardship for national lands; he said the subject is outside the House’s jurisdiction and therefore he would vote no.

On the roll call the House recorded 59 yeas, 5 nays and 1 excused; the resolution was adopted. The measure names several federal land management agencies and formally opposes efforts to transfer or dispose of national public lands.

The resolution’s sponsors and multiple lawmakers framed the vote as an affirmation of Colorado’s outdoor recreation economy and cultural attachment to public lands and urged continued federal stewardship.