Vet Voice Foundation Statement on Senate Vote on Public Lands Amendment

Washington, D.C. — Last night, the U.S. Senate voted on an amendment aimed at stopping the sell-off of America’s public lands — a dangerous effort that would allow large swaths of national parks, forests, and public open spaces to be auctioned off to private interests for development, extraction, or profit. The amendment, led by Senators Heinrich (NM) and Hickenlooper (CO), received bipartisan support to protect America’s public lands but failed by a vote of 48-51.

In response, Vet Voice Foundation CEO Janessa Goldbeck released the following statement:

“We are deeply disappointed by the Senators who did not support this critical amendment. A public lands sell-off would be devastating — threatening access to outdoor spaces that veterans and military families have relied on for generations as places of healing, recreation, and employment.

“We commend Senators Heinrich and Hickenlooper and all who joined them to stand up for these cherished public resources. Their leadership reflects a commitment to protecting the places that matter deeply to those who have served and to all Americans.

“The failure of this amendment sends the wrong message. Our public lands are not disposable assets. They are essential for the mental and physical well-being of veterans, for outdoor recreation jobs, and for the preservation of our shared national heritage.

“Vet Voice Foundation will continue to advocate for policies that protect our public lands from privatization and ensure continued access for the communities who need them most.”