119-S-1349 Journalist Public Summary

Public Summary: Ruby Mountains Protection Act (S. 1349)

Headline Summary: The bill would protect Nevada’s Ruby Mountains and Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge from new federal oil, gas, coal, and geothermal leasing, while leaving existing rights in place.

What It Does: S. 1349 withdraws about 309,272 acres of National Forest land in the Ruby Mountains and 39,926 acres in the Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge from operation under the federal mineral leasing laws. In plain English, that means no new federal leases for oil, gas, coal, or geothermal energy in these areas. It preserves any valid existing rights and allows noncommercial refuge management to continue.

• Who’s For It: Sponsored by Nevada Senators Catherine Cortez Masto and Jacky Rosen (both Democrats). Supporters typically include conservation and wildlife groups, many outdoor recreation advocates (hunters, anglers, hikers), and local residents who prioritize scenic, habitat, and water protections. They argue the bill safeguards wildlife habitat and recreation-driven local economies while honoring existing rights.
• Who’s Against It: Opponents generally include energy-development advocates and some industry groups and local officials who prefer to keep leasing options open. They argue the withdrawal could limit potential jobs, royalty revenue, and future domestic energy or geothermal development opportunities.

What’s Next: The bill was introduced in the Senate on April 8, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. The Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests, and Mining held a hearing on February 12, 2026. Next steps would typically be a subcommittee markup, full committee consideration, and then possible Senate floor debate; if passed, it would move to the House before going to the President.