The bill would require Congressional approval of significant disposal or transfer of federal land.
Some, like Rob Mason of the Wilderness Society in Boise, support this move, saying "Access to these lands is integral to the high quality of life that we all enjoy here in Idaho."
Simpson is recognizing the importance of protecting the lands which support wildlife habitats and thousands of livelihoods.
Congressional Republicans have introduced the idea that selling federal property can be used as a way to pay for the proposal to make President Donald Trump's 2017 tax cuts permanent.
They also say the bill will boost affordable housing near western cities and national parks.
Democrats pushed an amendment which would block the selling of federal land, both Senator Mike Crapo and Jim Risch joining the majority and rejecting the amendment.
Conservation groups are on high alert with this news, John Robinson of the Idaho Conservation League warning, "By not standing up to protect our public lands, Risch and Crapo are opening the door for these lands to be sold to the highest bidder and for 'No Trespassing' signs to go up across Idaho."
