The Congressional Western Caucus is working to advance six basic objectives:
Economic Growth: Members of the Western Caucus seek to eliminate federal impediments that are stifling economic growth, hindering job creation, driving up costs and preventing economic prosperity. Economic growth and conservation are not mutually exclusive goals and can be accomplished by promoting balanced, commonsense policies.
American Energy Security: Our Members support policies that increase, diversify and facilitate the production and delivery of reliable and affordable energy. The Caucus seeks to promote access to our nation’s energy and resource potential while pursuing a true all-of-the-above energy approach that aims to ensure the U.S. is the global energy leader.
Local Control: Stewardship of our environment and natural resources is best accomplished by empowering local stakeholders. The people who depend on the land to provide security for their families and communities understand those resources best. States and municipalities are better suited to deal with local issues than distant, out-of-touch Washington bureaucrats.
Private Property Rights: Private ownership of property is a fundamental right in America. Along with that ownership comes a certain expectation that landowners will be able to legally use their land as they see fit, so long as others are not harmed. Members of the Western Caucus pursue policies that protect private property from federal government takings and intrusions, consistent with our Constitution.
Multiple-Use: The multiple-use doctrine ensures that the resources and uses on federal lands must be utilized in a balanced combination that best meets the needs of the American people. Members of the Western Caucus advocate for public involvement in the planning process and strive to increase access on public lands for activities like hiking, hunting, fishing, OHV use, responsible energy production and grazing.
Agriculture and Forestry: Western Caucus members support policies that ensure affordable and safe domestic food production for American families. Maintaining healthy forests through active management is also a top priority for the Caucus.
