FRANKFORT, Ky. (LEX 18)– Senator Rand Paul introduced two Kentucky-specific amendments to a bill that covers issues affecting federal lands.
It’s the Natural Resources Management Act he’s proposing changes to and if passed, Kentuckians would see changes to two outdoor attractions.
The senator says these changes would help increase tourism and support new economic growth in counties around Daniel Boone National Forest and the Lake Cumberland area.
His amendments would give public access to waterways in the Daniel Boone National Forest in several counties. This would allow docks, boat slips, and marinas.
The senator’s other proposed change would allow parts of the forest to be sold.
He said it’s aiming at developing land in the national forest, which would allow the sale of land at some points along U.S. Highway 27.
Opponents of the bill say there’s no limitations to how much land can be sold an there’s no public input.
They say the sale could affect one to 150 thousand acres and could negatively affect wildlife in the area.
Opponents also say there are endangered species in the area that may be harmed and they’re urging people to call legislators.
Meanwhile, Paul says the federal government should not stand in the way of Kentuckians accessing their own natural resources.
