A Senate proposal to sell off millions of acres of public land has been blocked by the Senate Parliamentarian, halting a controversial plan that would have traded irreplaceable landscapes for short-term financial gain.

The proposal, introduced as part of a larger tax package, sought to raise billions in revenue by authorizing the sale of up to three million acres of land managed by the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service. However, the Senate Parliamentarian ruled that the measure was not eligible for inclusion in the fast-track budget reconciliation process, which is intended for legislation focused on taxes and spending, not major policy changes.

Scenic America strongly opposed the proposal, which would have stripped away public lands that provide essential scenic, environmental, and recreational value. These lands are part of the national heritage and should not be sold off to offset tax breaks.

“This ruling is a major victory for America’s priceless and irreplaceable public lands,” said Scenic America President Mark Falzone. “Our national parks and forests are not a political piggy bank. They are a shared resource that belongs to all Americans and must be protected.”

In response to the setback, Senator Mike Lee has suggested revising the provision to exclude Forest Service lands and to limit sales to parcels within five miles of population centers. Even with these changes, the core threat remains: opening the door to future land sell-offs under the guise of fiscal policy.

The public pushback was strong and immediate. Conservation groups, outdoor recreation advocates, and concerned citizens across the country made it clear that these lands should remain in public hands. The Parliamentarian’s decision reflects both the importance of procedural safeguards and the growing consensus that public lands must be preserved, not liquidated.

Scenic America urges lawmakers to stand firm against any renewed attempts to privatize public land. These places are more than just acreage. They are a vital part of our environment, our communities, and our national identity.

We will continue to advocate for a future where scenic beauty, public access, and responsible stewardship come first.