Udall & Heinrich Move to Protect Existing National Monuments Through ANTIQUITIES Act of 2018

New Mexico business leaders today are expressing appreciation to Senator Tom Udall for introducing the America’s Natural Treasures of Immeasurable Quality Unite, Inspire, and Together Improve the Economies of States Act (ANTIQUITIES Act) of 2018. This bill, co-sponsored by Senator Martin Heinrich and over 15 other U.S. Senators, codifies into law the boundaries for over 50 national monuments established through the Antiquities Act since 1996, ensuring that that on-going access for hunting, tourism, research, conservation, cultural uses, education, and other activities will continue. The legislation also validates that only Congress has the authority to reduce or diminish national monuments designated by presidents through the Antiquities Act of 1906. “Our national monuments are economic drivers for surrounding communities and the state as a whole, and this bill would protect the investments of business owners who have put in their money, blood, sweat, and tears to create something that in turn creates jobs,” commented Carrie Hamblen, president and CEO of the Las Cruces Green Chamber of Commerce. “Senator Udall understands how important our national monuments are to local communities, and how any change will have a devastating impact on those economies. His and Senator Heinrich’s leadership is more important now than ever before.”..more

Secretary Zinke's recommendations to Trump were to not change one single acre in either of NM's two new monuments. Not one acre, yet Udall & Heinrich still cater to the call of the enviros by introducing this legislation.