FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jan. 13, 2025

MCV: “Supreme Court decision protects public lands in Montana and beyond”

(HELENA, Mont.) — Montana Conservation Voters (MCV) released the following statement from Executive Director Whitney Tawney in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s dismissal of Utah v. United States — a lawsuit seeking to transfer federal public lands to state control: 

“The Supreme Court’s decision is a victory for the protection of public lands in Montana, Utah, and across the nation. Nearly one-third of Montana’s lands are held in public trust, this ruling ensures that these irreplaceable resources remain in public hands for generations to come. It guarantees that our outdoor way of life, our wildlife, and the communities that depend on these lands to get outside, work and identify with culturally continue to thrive.

“This decision reinforces that public lands should stay in public hands, protecting  them from the threat of privatization and exploitation by private interests. It is a win for all Montanans who value open access, clean air, clean water, and the sustainable economy our public lands support. We thank the Supreme Court for upholding the integrity of our public lands and affirming that these lands are meant to be safeguarded for the benefit of all Americans, not sold to the highest bidder.”