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House urges attorney general review of federal land actions under Utah Enabling Act
Summary
By voice and roll-call, the House adopted HJR 17 urging the attorney general to review apparent breaches of Utah’s Enabling Act and federal land‑management actions. Sponsor Representative Noel framed the resolution as seeking accountability and potential remedies over closures and federal control of public lands.
Representative Noel introduced first substitute HJR 17, calling it a companion to prior legislation and urging a legal review of federal public‑land management practices that he and supporters said have eroded state rights and local access. Noel cited historical expectations tied to the Utah Enabling Act and urged the attorney general to investigate alleged breaches and recommend actions. He said the issue affects roads, grazing rights, mineral access and school finance — and that local sheriffs and county officials have raised concerns about federal enforcement practices and closures.
Supporters including Representative Donaldson described the resolution as a straightforward request for the attorney general to examine the enabling act and report back with recommendations. The House debated the resolution and then voted to forward HJR 17 to the Senate, approving it by a recorded vote of 67–0.
No formal legal action is ordered by the resolution; it directs the attorney general to review the historical and legal claims and report findings to the legislature and counsel.
