This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

Applying a Dred Scott-type decision to the fatiguing lands debacle is exotic and clever ("Land transfer to states? ... " Jan. 31), but why the long reach?

In 1780s and 1790s, ordinances were passed putting into place the rules for land use and ownership. They were amended over time to apply to lands gained by treaty, annexation or purchase.

The ordinances clearly spell out utility, jurisdiction, purpose, intent and disposition, were incorporated into the U.S. Constitution, are widely studied in U.S. history courses and clearly define the issue.

Dave Ribacchi

Santa Clara