Ansari Blasts Trump Administration's Efforts to Rescind Roadless Rule

Representative Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ) blasted the Trump Administration's efforts to rescind the 2001 "Roadless Rule" enforced by the National Forest Service.

The Roadless Rule permanently protects approximately 58.5 million acres of woodland, spread across 39 states, from logging and roadbuilding, thereby protecting the habitats of roughly 1,600 species, reducing wildfire risks, and preserving watersheds that provide drinking water to 60 million Americans.

However, the Trump Administration has argued that this rule is outdated and does more harm than good, as its restrictions hinder adequate management of wildfires and impede economic development in these regions.

As a result, rescinding the mandate gives states greater control over the forests covered under the Roadless Rule.

"Once again, President Trump is removing absurd obstacles to common sense management of our natural resources by rescinding the overly restrictive roadless rule," said Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, adding, "This move opens a new era of consistency and sustainability for our nation's forests. It is abundantly clear that properly managing our forests preserves them from devastating fires and allows future generations of Americans to enjoy and reap the benefits of this great land."

Rep. Ansari is not buying it, saying, "The Trump Administration's latest move to roll back the Roadless Rule is a direct attack on our forests, watersheds, and the communities that depend on them."

"Protecting these wild places isn't optional, it's essential for clean water, wildlife, and the fight against climate change—it's why I'm proud to have introduced the Roadless Area Conservation Act with Congresswoman [Andrea] Salinas (D-OR). #ProtectRoadless," Rep. Ansari added.

The Arizona Congresswoman introduced the Roadless Area Conservation Act in June, which would codify the Roadless Rule into law. This act, in addition to the provisions described in the Roadless Rule, saves taxpayer money on road construction, thereby allowing the Forest Service to maintain its existing road network and reduce the backlog of deferred maintenance.

Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) introduced the Senate companion bill, saying, "For decades, the Roadless Rule has been protecting over 1 million acres of forest in Arizona – providing clean air and water, supporting areas of cultural and spiritual significance to many tribes, and bolstering our vital tourism economy. But unless we codify those protections into law, they will always be at risk. That's exactly what this legislation does, and I'm proud to reintroduce it."