The Louisiana House is advancing a resolution opposing any effort to transfer, privatize or remove the Kisatchie National Forest from federal ownership and management.

House Resolution 343, authored by Gabe Firment, memorializes Congress to reject proposals that would transfer, divest or otherwise dispose of lands within Louisiana’s only national forest.

The measure was read by title and advanced to third reading in the Louisiana House on May 27. Floor debate is scheduled for May 28.

The resolution comes amid growing public concern over discussions involving possible federal land transfers tied to restoration and economic development proposals in central Louisiana. Conservation organizations, outdoor recreation advocates and local officials have recently voiced opposition to any reduction of federal oversight of the forest.

The approximately 604,000-acre Kisatchie National Forest spans several central and north Louisiana parishes and supports timber management, hunting, fishing, hiking, wildlife habitat and tourism activity. It is managed by the U.S. Forest Service.

In the resolution, lawmakers argue the forest provides economic, environmental and recreational benefits to Louisiana residents and visitors and should remain accessible to the public under federal management.

The measure does not carry the force of law but serves as an official statement of the Louisiana House’s position to Congress and federal policymakers.

HR 343 places the Louisiana House formally on record opposing any effort to transfer or privatize portions of Kisatchie National Forest, signaling bipartisan concern over preserving public access and federal stewardship of Louisiana’s only national forest.