Tom Lantos: “I rise today top express my strong support for H.R. 4103, the Martin's Cove Land Transfer Act. This legislation was…”

“I rise today top express my strong support for H.R. 4103, the Martin's Cove Land Transfer Act. This legislation was introduced in this House by our distinguished colleague from Utah, Mr. Hansen, the Chair of the Committee on Resources. I also want to acknowledge the important role of our colleague from West Virginia, Mr. Rahall, the Ranking Democratic Member of the Committee. I also thank my colleague, Mr. Kildee of Michigan, who is managing time for the minority today. As my colleagues have noted, Madam Speaker, the legislation provides for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to acquire Federal lands in the state of Wyoming known as Martin's Cove. Generally, Madam Speaker, I have strongly supported the acquisition of lands by the Federal Government in order to provide protection for important natural areas. During the time I have served in this body, I have introduced and supported a number of bills which have provided for the addition of new lands to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area in California and the acquisition of other lands for preservation and protection by the Federal Government. In fact, I currently have before the Committee on Resources H.R. 1953, legislation to revise the boundaries of Golden Gate National Recreation Area in the San Francisco Bay Area. It may appear to be unusual that I am supporting H.R. 4103, which provides for the sale of Federal lands. The land at Martin's Cove, however, is unique.…”