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Committee adopts amended resolution protecting public lands, removing roadless/timber language
Summary
The committee amended HR 44 to remove references to the roadless rule and timber‑harvesting prohibitions, then voted 16‑0 to pass the resolution as amended; sponsor said changes were made to avoid conflicts with federal mandates and to build consensus.
The Resources, Recreation and Development committee unanimously amended and passed House Resolution 44, a resolution concerning protection of public lands, after the sponsor removed language that had raised concerns about conflict with federal roadless protections and timber management.
Representative Darby moved that HR 44 "ought to pass" and introduced amendment 2026‑0800h. Darby said she removed specific language about the roadless rule and provisions barring timbering in the White Mountain National Forest, citing ongoing litigation and the importance of logging to the state economy. She said the revised language still seeks to limit new road development in sensitive areas while avoiding direct conflict with federal mandates.
The clerk called the roll on the amendment and the committee approved it 16‑0. Representative Darby then moved that HR 44 ought to pass as amended; the clerk read the roll and the motion passed 16‑0. The chair indicated the item would be placed on consent and closed the executive session.
What it means: The committee retained the resolution’s goal of protecting open spaces while removing provisions that could create legal conflict with federal rules or sharply curtail timbering in ways members said might harm local economies. The unanimous votes indicate broad committee support for the amended resolution.
