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This Just In
Utah Breaking News | Brought to you by Utah Policy
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
By Bob Bernick
Perhaps the greatest challenge Utah GOP legislators have in the battle over federal lands is not Congress, or the president, or even the environmental community.
It's Utah citizens themselves, many of whom question whether the Republican establishment that runs this place will protect Utah's millions of acres of pristine lands now under federal control -- for the enjoyment of future generations.
Using a phrase from LDS Church doctrine and society, Rep. Steve Handy says he's is convinced that future Legislatures and governors will have "proper stewardship" of the lands.
And now it is up to Handy to shepherd through a bill this session that sets out a framework for Utah officials to designate wilderness areas, should the time come when the state gets control of the 65 percent of land now held by the federal government.