WTAS: Stakeholders Applaud Representative Ciscomani’s Bipartisan Leadership to Protect Arizona’s Public Lands

Tucson, AZ - Local elected officials and conservation stakeholders are praising U.S. Representative Juan Ciscomani for his bipartisan leadership in protecting Arizona’s public lands and preserving the outdoor spaces that define the American West.

Recently, Ciscomani joined bipartisan efforts with Rep. Gabe Vasquez to introduce the Public Lands Integrity Act, legislation that would protect America’s public lands by immediately halting any efforts of them being sold through budget reconciliation processes without transparency, accountability, and public input.

"Our public lands should never be subject to backroom deals or rushed budget negotiations. Selling or disposing of them through reconciliation is the wrong approach. That’s why I’m proud to co-lead the bipartisan Public Lands Integrity Act, which ensures decisions about these treasured spaces are made openly, through regular order, and with full public input. This legislation protects Arizona’s landscapes and ensures future generations can experience the natural beauty that makes our state and country so special," said Rep. Ciscomani. "Our public lands are an American heritage. They belong to every community, every family, and every generation. Whether you are a Republican, Democrat, or Independent, these lands are in our backyards and shape the places we call home."

This effort builds upon Rep. Ciscomani’s longstanding commitment to protecting Arizona’s public lands and preserving the natural treasures that define the state.

As a member of the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, Ciscomani has consistently fought for responsible stewardship, public access, and transparency in federal land management decisions since elected to congress. He has fiercely supported efforts to protect public lands, including cosponsoring the Promoting Accessibility on Federal Lands Act and introducing the Chiricahua National Park Act, legislation that advanced through the House with wide bipartisan support and continues to move forward through the legislative process where it awaiting a vote from the Senate then be signed into law by the President.

The Public Lands Integrity Act has received broad support from local leaders, conservation organizations, veterans, and outdoor recreation advocates who recognize that Arizona’s public lands are vital to communities across the state.

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING

ARIZONA ELECTED OFFICIALS

"Ironwood Forest National Monument is near and dear to the people of Marana. As one of Southern Arizona’s most remarkable landscapes, it draws visitors from across the region while preserving the natural beauty and outdoor heritage that define our community. We commend Representatives Juan Ciscomani and Gabe Vasquez for their bipartisan leadership to protect the public lands that define our communities." - Jon Post, Mayor of Marana

"As a community surrounded by some of Arizona’s most treasured public lands, Marana recognizes the important role public lands play in supporting our outdoor recreation opportunities, our local economy, and the quality of life that makes our community such a special place to call home. Protecting these lands from being sold through expedited budget processes helps preserve the certainty and stewardship our residents and visitors expect." - Terry Rozema, Town Manager of Marana

"Public lands are integral to our identity and economy. Treasured places like Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni bring visitors to our region, create jobs, and provide opportunities for residents to explore and enjoy nature. Selling off these lands would demonstrate a lack of vision and a misunderstanding of what the public values. We thank Representative Ciscomani for sponsoring the Public Lands Integrity Act." - Mayor Becky Daggett, City of Flagstaff

"Yavapai County’s public lands are the heartbeat of our community and the backbone of our economy. These precious spaces provide habitat for wildlife, support agriculture, and give residents countless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. We are grateful to Rep. Ciscomani for standing up to protect them." - Supervisor Nikki Check, Yavapai County

"Public lands are the backbone of Arizona’s outdoor heritage. They support recreation, tourism, and the health and well-being of our communities. Pima County is proud to stand up for these places, and we thank Rep. Ciscomani for sponsoring the Public Lands Integrity Act." - Supervisor Rex Scott, Pima County

"Public lands serve as the bedrock of our communities, economy, and heritage. These landscapes are essential to our identity and prosperity. Those lands belong to all of us and should not be bargained away for short-term political gain. We appreciate Representative Ciscomani for sponsoring the Public Lands Integrity Act." - Chair Patrice Horstman, Coconino County Board of Supervisors

STAKEHOLDERS

Michael "Chappy" Chappell, U.S. Navy Veteran and Director of the Veteran Engagement and Trail Stewardship (VETS) Program with the Arizona Trail Association: "Public lands are an American heritage shared by all of us. They are where veterans reconnect with their families and communities, reflect, reintegrate, and continue serving through stewardship and outdoor recreation. Congressman Ciscomani understands that protecting these lands is about preserving a legacy that reaches every community."

Matthew Nelson, Executive Director of the Arizona Trail Association: "Public lands are what make Arizona such a wonderful place to live, work, and visit. These deserts, mountains, canyons, and forests are vital to our way of life and should remain in public hands for future generations. We are grateful to Representatives Ciscomani and the sponsors for their leadership."

Michael Cravens, Arizona Wildlife Federation: "The Public Lands Integrity Act helps ensure that the lands where Arizonans hunt, fish, hike, and recreate are managed through a transparent and deliberate process, rather than being offered up as part of legislative negotiations. We applaud Representatives Ciscomani, Vasquez, and the bill’s sponsors for their leadership."

Kate Hotten, Co-Executive Director of the Coalition for Sonoran Desert Protection:"The Public Lands Integrity Act is a win for Southern Arizona and the landscapes that define it. We are glad to see Representative Ciscomani lead on legislation that values transparency and local voices in the management of our public lands."

Arizona Mountain Mamas: "As mothers, we want our children to explore our public lands, breathe clean air, and drink clean water. These places deserve to be protected and preserved for future generations, and thanks to Congressman Juan Ciscomani’s leadership, we are one step closer to preventing backroom deals from threatening these treasured spaces."

Nathan Rees, Arizona State Director of Trout Unlimited: "Thank you, Representative Ciscomani, for supporting the Public Lands Integrity Act. This bipartisan legislation protects our American heritage, preserves outdoor recreation opportunities, and ensures decisions about selling public lands are made through a transparent public process."

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