Just moments ago Rep. Grijalva, Raul M. [D-AZ-3] introduced HR 575. (Crafted yesterday and introduced, given a number, just moments ago)

114th CONGRESS
2d Session
H. RES. 575

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

January 5, 2016
Mr. Grijalva submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Natural Resources

RESOLUTION

Expressing disapproval of the occupation of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge by a group of armed individuals.

Whereas, on Saturday January 2, 2016, a number of armed individuals broke into and occupied the headquarters building at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in Harney County, Oregon;

Whereas these individuals have continued to unlawfully occupy and block access to the refuge headquarters in violation of Federal law, disrupting operations of the refuge;

Whereas these individuals have prevented 20 refuge employees from reporting to work and prevented refuge employees living on the refuge from accessing their homes;

Whereas the unlawful actions of these individuals are harming the local community, including forcing local officials to close public schools in the area for security reasons;

Whereas these actions have forced closure of at least one other Federal facility in the area;

Whereas the Harney County Sheriff and local residents, including Dwight and Steven Hammond, have condemned these unlawful actions;

Whereas recent incidents involving these individuals and similar armed groups have resulted in violence, or threats of violence, toward Federal land managers and local and Federal law enforcement officers;

Whereas those engaged in these unlawful activities have publicly called for more armed individuals to come to the refuge;

Whereas at least one elected official has already offered inflammatory statements supporting these unlawful actions; and

Whereas it is imperative that this unlawful occupation does not escalate into violence: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives condemns the unlawful, armed occupation of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge and calls on those involved to end their occupation and surrender to law enforcement authorities immediately.

We urge you to click the link below. If you live in one of the Committee Member States please call them and urge support of HR 575 and an immediate emergency vote.

http://naturalresources.house.gov/about/members.htm

Please be aware that WHE has been keeping a number of individuals informed to escalating issues in many parts of the West. We have been sending documentation.

We applaud Rep. Grijalva for taking action in these very tense times. Not only are federal employees at risk, but members of the public that travel the West to document and engage for the preservation of our public resources are increasingly in danger.

WHE has been the target of several of the attempts to intimidate participation in legal process.

The environment of fear must end.