"Budd-Falen signed ethics documents that barred her from working on or discussing grazing issues, stating, 'I will recuse myself from any discussion of grazing matters or the Department's process for issuing grazing permits for the duration of my appointment.'"
"Despite her previous disqualifications, Budd-Falen has been actively working on grazing-related issues, including disputes at Point Reyes National Seashore and changes to the National Environmental Policy Act."
"Budd-Falen's financial ties to ranching operations and her husband's lucrative deal with a lithium mine developer have triggered calls for an investigation into potential conflicts of interest."
Karen Budd-Falen, a rancher and lawyer, joined the Interior Department in 2018 and signed ethics documents to recuse herself from grazing issues. Now back as associate deputy secretary, she has been involved in grazing-related matters, despite her previous disqualifications. Budd-Falen has a history of representing ranching interests against environmental regulations and has financial ties to ranching operations. Her husband's deal with a Nevada lithium mine developer has raised concerns about conflicts of interest and calls for investigation.
Read at High Country News
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