Heinrich Criticizes Trump Administration’s Proposal to Divest Portions of Yosemite National Park and Urges Caution Against Senate Republicans’ Assault on Energy Efficiency Standards and Tribal Safeguards

Here’s a summary of Senator Martin Heinrich’s remarks during the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Hearing:

Summary of Remarks by Senator Martin Heinrich

Context:
During a recent Senate hearing, Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) highlighted concerns over several legislative proposals that could negatively impact public lands, energy standards, and Tribal rights.

Key Issues Raised:

1. Yosemite National Park Land Sale:

   • Heinrich criticized a proposal from the Department of the Interior to exchange public land in Yosemite for private development, expressing alarm over the request for $300,000 from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) to facilitate this exchange.
   • He emphasized that the LWCF is meant to protect public lands and expand recreational access, not enrich private interests.

2. Energy Efficiency Standards:

   • Heinrich condemned two bills (S. 5338 and S. 1658) proposed by Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah) that would eliminate significant energy efficiency standards and potentially result in higher costs for consumers.
   • He pointed out that the proposed legislation would undermine the Department of Energy’s ability to set future standards, increasing demand for electricity and risking hundreds of millions in savings for consumers.

3. Lack of Bipartisan Weatherization Efforts:

   • Heinrich expressed disappointment that the hearing did not explore bipartisan legislation aimed at weatherizing homes to help families reduce energy bills.

4. Tribal Protections in Hydropower Legislation:

   • He criticized S. 5048, the Hydropower Licensing Affordability Act, for its potential to weaken protections for Tribal lands and rights. Heinrich referenced concerns from Tribal Nations about the bill’s implications for fishing rights and cultural sites.

Conclusion:
Heinrich concluded his remarks by stressing the need for transparency regarding public land protection and the importance of maintaining energy efficiency standards to prevent backsliding on progress made in consumer savings and environmental protections.

This summary captures the essence of Heinrich’s concerns regarding public lands, energy policy, and Tribal rights discussed during the hearing.