Utah County Challenges BLM's Authority in Carbon County

*Editor's Note: There is 1 wild horse Herd Management Area that resides within Carbon County.

A Utah county has taken a bold step by passing a resolution that challenges the authority of federal agents, specifically those from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), to enforce state or local laws within its borders. This move underscores a growing tension between local and federal governance, particularly concerning land management.

Resolution Passed by Carbon County

The Carbon County Commission unanimously approved the resolution on June 4. The resolution explicitly states that any attempt by a land management agency official to exercise law enforcement powers "IS NOT RECOGNIZED" by Carbon County and is considered "AN IMMINENT THREAT TO THE HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE OF THE CITIZENS OF CARBON COUNTY."

Federal Enforcement Powers Challenged

In its declaration, the commission emphasized that Carbon County does not acknowledge any federal official's attempt to enforce state or local criminal or civil laws on any lands within the county, including BLM or Forest Service lands. Furthermore, the resolution requires that any federal agent intending to take law enforcement action must first notify the Sheriff of Carbon County.

Context of the Resolution

This resolution follows a high-profile standoff in Nevada earlier in the year between the BLM and a militia supporting rancher Cliven Bundy. However, the resolution does not mention Bundy or the standoff directly.

For more details, you can read the full resolution here: Carbon County BLM Resolution

Originally posted by Talking Points Memo.