This is your July edition of BHA's State Policy Spotter - a high-level scan of state policy and legislation impacting our wild public lands, waters and wildlife across North America. Note - this is not a comprehensive list of legislation or issues that chapters are working on, but rather a spotlight in the moment of what is moving. There are many more bills and issues BHA's chapters are grappling with so be sure to check out individual chapter pages for more news and ...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 11, 2025  Contact: media@backcountryhunters.org    MISSOULA, Mont. — Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) is rebuking a sweeping new proposal released by the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee that would force the sale of up to 3 million acres of public lands under the guise of a solution to the housing crisis. This proposal—led by committee chair Senator Mike Lee (R-UT)—would apply to public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest ...

After an extremely busy session, the Utah Legislature wrapped up on Friday, March 7. The chapter leaders of Utah Backcountry Hunters and Anglers tracked several bills this year and participated in multiple public comment opportunities to voice our support / opposition. BHA members and supporters sent over 5000 messages to legislators in Utah opposing bills attempting to privatize our public trust resources. This session was particularly exciting due to the restructuring of Utah’s ...

Between Utah's legislative session, the opening of Hunting for Sustainability applications, and an amazing public lands party with Ryan Callaghan of Meateater, February was a busy month! Read on for a recap of the Party for Public Lands, info on the deadline for Hunting for Sustainability, a call for volunteers to help with fundraising planning and the upcoming DWR Regional Advisory Council meetings, and a "save the date" for a summer project on the Paunsaugunt!  Utah BHA Hosts a Party ...

Every year in Q1, Utah state officials engage in the Utah Legislative Session to pass new laws or amend laws. Utah BHA follows and engages in the Session quite closely, as there are typically bills that impact public lands, waters, and wildlife. Read about some of the bills we have been following below and take action. Every citizen has the right to engage directly with their state representatives on these issues. Visit the BHA elected officials directory to find out who your state ...