Washington, D.C. — Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-09), issued the following statement after joining Senator Kyrsten Sinema in introducing H.R. 8517,  the La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act, which transfers 3,400 acres of federal land to La Paz County to help maximize additional renewable energy generation and energy storage capabilities, enhance the local tax base for the county, and facilitate transformative economic development opportunities for county residents:

“I am proud to join Senator Sinema in introducing the La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act. This critical legislation builds upon the success of the La Paz County Land Conveyance Act, the previous legislation I introduced which was enacted into law in 2019.  My latest bill concentrates on a continued goal of creating and enlarging the job and energy hub in La Paz County. The 3,400 acres proposed for conveyance in the La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act includes those remaining parcels in the original proposal that were not enacted into law and adds other parcels that are also compatible for clean energy development.

Home to a flourishing energy development scene, La Paz County has worked to increase renewable energy development by means of sustainable solar power. These efforts deserve to be supported and expanded, as increased energy development benefits Arizonans and the community around them. Empowering local governments to make their own land management decisions by minimizing the federal government’s overarching influence allows for the unique needs of communities to be better addressed.

I introduced this legislation because I believe local government, rather than a federal bureaucrat, is fundamentally best fit to serve the interest of their communities. I am proud to have led an effort which works to promotes economic vitality, job creation, and affordable energy for Arizonans,” stated Congressman Gosar.

“On behalf of the La Paz County Board of Supervisors, I wish to thank Congressman Gosar for introducing this important legislation in the House of Representatives. This vital legislation ensures La Paz County can be home to the largest solar project in the nation, which will bring new jobs and significant economic development opportunities for our region.  The bill also represents an important partnership between La Paz County and the Colorado River Indian Tribes focused on preserving tribal artifacts as development occurs,” said Duce Minor, Chairman of La Paz County Board of Supervisors, District 2.

“La Paz County is uniquely positioned to support renewable energy development and this bill builds upon our strategic plan to grow our local economy. As a result of this bill, our community will have access to good-paying jobs for years to come,” added Holly Irwin, Vice Chair, La Paz County Supervisor, District 3.

“The La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act will provide lasting and significant benefits for our community and the region. The county applauds Congressman Gosar for introducing this critical legislation,” concluded David Plunkett, La Paz County Supervisor, District 1.