In 2012, Utah Gov. Gary Herbert (R) signed the Transfer of Public Lands Act (HB148) demanding that the federal government cede its lands, which make up roughly two-thirds of the state's area, to the state.  Since then, 5 other states have passed legislation moving them towards the same goal.  

Yesterday, Herbert, who also chairs the Western Governors' Association, testified before the House Natural Resources subpanel that not only can Utah manage their own lands, but that they have the ability and interest to do it better than the federal government.  

Utah Senator, Rob Bishop, chairman of the Subcommittee on Public Lands and Environmental Regulation, which is holding the hearing, has studied the issues of our public lands for many years.  In February of this year, he stated, "Over the last few decades we've seen our National Forest System fall into complete neglect-what was once a valuable asset that deteriorated into a growing liability.  I believe our forests and pubic lands are long overdue for a paradigm shift."  

The American Lands Council says, "Amen, Senator!  Amen!"

Take some time to watch a few moments of yesterday's hearing, with comments from both Sen. Chris Stewart and Gov. Gary Herbert.  (Watch entire hearing here.) 

Gov Herbert testifies before the Natural Resource Committee 5:21:13