A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Land Management relating to "Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan".
- Sponsor
- Sen. Lee, Mike [R-UT]
- Committees
- Energy and Natural Resources Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Mar 4, 2026
Bottom line
This resolution seeks to overturn a Bureau of Land Management rule concerning the management plan for the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, effectively reinstating prior management directives or requiring new ones.
What it actually does
This joint resolution, introduced under the Congressional Review Act (CRA), expresses congressional disapproval of a specific rule issued by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The rule in question is the "Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan," which was issued on January 13, 2025. If enacted, this resolution would nullify the BLM's rule, preventing it from taking effect and prohibiting the agency from reissuing a substantially similar rule without further congressional authorization.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that the BLM's rule oversteps its authority, imposes undue restrictions on land use, or is inconsistent with local interests and economic development opportunities within and around the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. They contend that the monument's management plan should reflect a balance of conservation and multiple-use principles, and that the disapproved rule fails to achieve this balance, potentially harming local communities and industries.
Opponents contend
Opponents of this resolution (and thus proponents of the BLM rule) would argue that the BLM's "Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan" is essential for the long-term protection and conservation of the unique ecological, geological, and cultural resources within the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. They would assert that the rule was developed through a thorough public process, based on scientific evidence, and is necessary to safeguard the monument from potentially damaging activities, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
The bill text is extremely short and direct, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its explicit purpose immediately.
Section 1
Congressional Disapproval of BLM Rule
This provision explicitly states that Congress disapproves of the Bureau of Land Management's "Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan," which was issued on January 13, 2025. By disapproving this rule under the Congressional Review Act, the resolution aims to nullify the rule, preventing it from taking effect and barring the agency from enacting a similar rule in the future without specific congressional authorization.
Supporters argue
Supporters of the resolution argue that the BLM's rule was an overreach or detrimental to local economic interests, and that congressional action is necessary to restore a more balanced approach to land management in the monument. They believe the rule imposed unnecessary restrictions or failed to adequately consider the needs of stakeholders.
Critics contend
Opponents of the resolution (and supporters of the BLM rule) contend that the rule was carefully crafted to protect the monument's unique natural and cultural resources, and that its disapproval would undermine conservation efforts and potentially expose the area to harmful development or exploitation. They argue the rule was based on sound science and public input.
Tradeoffs
The provision highlights the ongoing tension between conservation interests and economic development/multiple-use principles in managing federal lands, particularly national monuments. It also reflects the balance of power between the executive branch (BLM's rulemaking authority) and the legislative branch (Congress's oversight via CRA).