U.S. Rep. Helen Chenoweth has quietly endorsed a proposed amendment to Owyhee County’s land-use plan she says would curtail the increased presence of U.S. Bureau of Land Management officers there.

“This amendment will restore the authority of law enforcement to its proper level, the local government,” the Idaho Republican said.

“The BLM has no business whatsoever in taking over the enforcing of laws.

“The law specifically states that the agency is to rely on the local authorities to the maximum extent possible,” she said.

It would make BLM rangers work more closely with the Owyhee County sheriff, said Tim Lowry, county land-use planning chairman.

He said that panel must make a recommendation to the county commissioners.

Eleven months ago, Sheriff Tim Nettleton stripped federal agents of their peace officer status within the county; Chenoweth said his action was appropriate.

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