Donovan’s Public Lands Day bill passes House, now to state Senate

DENVER — Sen. Kerry Donovan’s bill to designate the third Saturday in May as Public Lands Day passed the house on Tuesday. The bill, which the Senate Democratic Caucus has called one of their legislative priorities, now heads to the Senate for consideration.

The bill would honor the impact public lands have on Colorado’s economy and way of life, said Donovan, a Vail native who was elected to the state Senate in 2014.

“Celebrating our public lands is a uniquely American idea that everyone can get behind,” she said. “By creating our own Public Lands Day, Coloradans can take a moment to appreciate all the great traditions we are able to enjoy on these lands. I look forward to its quick passage and movement to Gov. (John) Hickenlooper’s desk.”

The bill received wide support from a diverse number of groups, from Colorado Bowhunters and the Patriot Anglers to Backcountry United and Environmental Learning for Kids.

“Our public lands should be set aside not for one person but instead the collective good,” said Sen. Lucia Guzman, D-Denver, the Senate minority leader. “That’s why it shouldn’t be surprising Coloradans from both parties have — year after year — come out in support of maintaining critical protections so our beautiful lands can stay public. With this legislation, we are sending a strong, clear message that we will protect our public lands and ensure they aren’t cut up and sold to the highest bidder.”