The U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 5131, the Public Lands Military Readiness Act of 2025, which was led by Alaska Congressman Nick Begich to extend critical military land withdrawals in Alaska, New Mexico and California for 25 years and provide long-term certainty for America’s most strategic training and testing ranges.
“Alaska is the tip of the spear for America’s defense. Our training ranges in Alaska and across the country are indispensable for Arctic readiness and missile defense,” Begich said after the Dec. 9 vote. “This legislation ensures our servicemen and women have uninterrupted access to the world-class training spaces they need to remain the strongest fighting force on earth.”
Begich noted that by extending these land withdrawals, Congress is helping President Trump’s efforts provide the military the certainty and support required to counter emerging threats.
The bill was praised by Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) who chairs the House Committee on Natural Resources. He said the legislation ensures that the military retains access to critical and strategic training ranges around the nation.
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“This legislation gives our military the space and stability necessary to prepare for emerging threats while maintaining responsible stewardship of federal lands,” Westerman noted.
The Public Lands Military Readiness Act extends military land withdrawals for 25 years at Fort Greely and Fort Wainwright in Alaska, McGregor Range at Fort Bliss in New Mexico, and Fort Irwin in California, ensuring uninterrupted access through 2051.
These areas are considered premier training ranges essential for Arctic operations, missile defense testing, live-fire exercises and Indo-Pacific preparedness.
The bill also reinforces Alaska’s strategic role as a central hub for Arctic and Pacific defense operations by ensuring that the military can continue training in advanced, realistic winter environments. Following its passage in the House, the measure now heads to the Senate for consideration.
