This map, circulating online, shows which lands are eligible for sale according to the Wilderness Society. COURTESY PHOTO

Recent discussions surrounding the Grand Old Party (GOP) budget reconciliation bill, informally dubbed the “Big Beautiful Bill,” have sparked significant concern among Wyoming residents regarding potential federal land sales. Iconic landscapes such as the Greys River, Green River, and Fremont lakes are under scrutiny as maps circulated by The Wilderness Society indicate that about 15 million acres in Wyoming could be earmarked for housing development.

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The GOP reconciliation budget bill proposes allowing federal lands to be sold to address affordable housing issues. However, critics argue that the proposal lacks sufficient provisions to ensure that any developed housing remains affordable.

Residents fear that the measure could permanently alter the character of Wyoming’s outdoor heritage, affecting recreational activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking.

In an interview on the Weekday Wake-up, Senator Harriet Hageman emphasized that much of the information circulating about the potential land sales is misleading. She stated, “The first thing I’ll say is, essentially 100% of the information out there about potential land sales of federal lands is inaccurate.” Hageman noted that the public land portion was not included in the bill when it was passed out of the House; it was added in the Senate. As of today, the bill still resides in the Senate, and any changes would have to go back to the House for approval before reaching the President’s desk for signature.

Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon signs a proclamation for Wyoming Veteran’s Home Day while speaking at the Wyoming National Guard Readiness Center in Afton, Saturday, May 10. SVI PHOTO/DAN DOCKSTADER

Hageman highlighted the confusion surrounding the maps being circulated, which she claims do not accurately represent the bill’s intent. She asserted, “Whatever map they are putting out there… is an absolute 100% lie.” She clarified that the bill’s purpose is to create new maps to identify land suitable for development, rather than to sell off public lands indiscriminately.

She pointed out that the bill is focused on 11 western states and aims to dispose of federal lands located within 1 to 5 miles of communities facing housing challenges. For instance, she mentioned that in urban areas like Las Vegas, vacant BLM-owned lots remain undeveloped due to bureaucratic hurdles, and the bill aims to expedite the sale of these parcels.

Despite Hageman’s reassurances, many residents remain skeptical. Critics argue that the bill undermines the very essence of Wyoming’s outdoor lifestyle, which is deeply intertwined with access to public lands. The Wilderness Society’s map, while criticized by Hageman, has raised alarm among outdoor enthusiasts who believe that any sale of public lands could restrict access to vital recreational spaces.

Local voices express a sense of urgency regarding the potential loss of public lands. One Star Valley resident expressed concern that selling these areas would essentially shut locals out of their treasured outdoor spaces. Others have voiced that this would transform Wyoming into a playground for the wealthy.

As the debate surrounding the GOP budget reconciliation bill continues, it is clear that the implications for Wyoming’s public lands are profound. While officials like Harriet Hageman seek to clarify misconceptions, the fears voiced by residents about losing access to their natural heritage remain strong.