FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MAY 17, 2016
DENVER—On Wednesday the Utah State Legislature is expected to consider a resolution opposing a proposed Bears Ears National Monument in southeast Utah. This special session comes just weeks after state legislators asked Utah’s Attorney General to investigate five Native American tribes, questioning their motives for protecting their cultural heritage. A new poll by Creation Justice Ministries shows 7 in 10 Utahns support protecting the Bears Ears as a monument.
In response to the Utah State Legislature’s special session, the Center for Western Priorities released the following statement:
Executive Director Jennifer Rokala:
“Utah politicians are wasting time and taxpayer money to push a resolution that is out of step with Utahns, who broadly support protecting the state’s outdoor spaces. Instead of respecting public input, Utah politicians have launched a witch hunt questioning the motives of tribes seeking to protect their cultural heritage.
“Utah legislators should stop tilting at windmills and start respecting our parks and public lands.”