Washington D.C. - U.S. Senator Jim Risch today released his hold on the nomination of Sally Jewel to become the Secretary of Interior.  Risch’s hold prevented Jewel’s nomination from moving forward for consideration by the full Senate.

“This hold was about getting a commitment from the Department of Interior to follow the best science available and support the collaborative effort that has been taking place to protect sage grouse in Idaho.  I wanted assurance that all agencies under Interior’s jurisdiction support accepting the best science available.  This is a critical issue for over 1800 permittees who graze on public land in Idaho.  The collaborative efforts by Governor Otter, ranchers, state agencies, scientists and other stakeholders in creating a state management plan at the invitation of the Secretary of Interior deserves the support of all Idahoans.  Only by working together can we achieve solutions that are acceptable to all parties.  I am very pleased that Interior nominee Sally Jewel agrees with that approach.”

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