Senator Michael Bennet Advocates for Gunnison Outdoor Resources Protection Act to Safeguard Public Lands
Senator Michael Bennet of Colorado testified before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests, and Mining in support of the Gunnison Outdoor Resources Protection (GORP) Act. This bipartisan bill aims to protect over 730,000 acres of public land near McClure Pass. The GORP Act, also known as Senate Bill 1791, seeks to establish wilderness and Special Management Areas (SMAs) to conserve wildlife and promote sustainable recreation. The bill, drafted in 2022 with the help of the Gunnison Public Lands Initiative, has garnered support from various stakeholders, including local businesses, nonprofits, and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. The legislation aims to maintain existing land uses while preventing further development, ensuring the economic vitality of Gunnison County through collaboration among diverse interests.