Address real issues, not sale of state lands

Concerning Rep. Eric Anderson’s article on Idaho’s procurement of federal lands, before taking needless time and actions it would be worthwhile for legislators to review the Idaho Constitution and Idaho law on what is legal. Both do not allow Idaho to claim federal properties (see Idaho Admissions Act and Article 21, Section 19 of the Idaho Constitution). Also ask the question, is Idaho willing to assume this responsibility to continue to serve all multiple use needs and demands, frequently for a loss?

Payment for roads, recreation needs, continued monitoring/ management of all resources, and maintenance of water quality/ flow to downstream populations is costly. These costs are now paid by the federal government. Is Idaho willing to pay this cost for a loss or would Idaho, as state law requires, decide to maximize profits with a loss of services and require us to sacrifice access or services to public properties, perhaps making them forever inaccessible?

There are legal, budgetary, and access questions that would need to be answered before thinking of jumping wholehearted into a misguided idea. Consider all of the vast value our current public lands provide each of us. Are we willing to sacrifice this for the state funds uncertain monetary gain and possible public access and service loss?

Legislators need to address real and current issues facing Idaho rather than to further politicize a debate that is divisive and is neither legal, good business, nor good for the citizens of Idaho.

JIM DuBUISSON

Sandpoint