Udall, Salazar seek harsher penalties for public-land damage

The destruction of public lands by off-road vehicles and fires caused by carelessness has prompted legislation that could result in stronger penalties for those responsible. U.S. Sen. Mark Udall and U.S. Rep. John Salazar, both Colorado Democrats, have introduced legislation designed to deter damage to public lands caused by illegal or reckless activities. The legislation would amend the 1976 Federal Lands Policy and Management Act to allow the secretary of the interior and the secretary of agriculture to impose fines up to $100,000 and up to 12 months in jail or both. Federal law now prevents the U.S. Bureau of Land Management from assessing a fine greater than $1,000...read more