"Republicans Split on Bishop's Plan To Reform LWCF"

"House Natural Resources Chairman Rob Bishop has received praise and criticism from his Republican colleagues over his proposal to overhaul the Land and Water Conservation Fund, a sign of potential headwinds as the Utahan seeks to advance his bill.

Bishop's proposal, which he released last week, would significantly slash the amount of money from LWCF that can go to federal lands acquisition while providing no less than 20 percent support for oil and gas permitting and workforce development and 15 percent for rural counties. It would also ensure no less than 45 percent go to states to support close-to-home recreation.

Bishop defended the changes, noting that the law originally guaranteed at least 60 percent of the money go to states. He also argued that Congress must invest in offshore drilling if it hopes to sustain and grow LWCF's main revenue source -- oil and gas royalties."

Phil Taylor reports for E&E Daily November 10, 2015.