Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of Representative Stefanik's bill, the Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area Enhancement Act. Established in 1996, the Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area was among the earliest national heritage areas designated by Congress. It follows the Hudson River for roughly 150 miles through New York State covering 10 counties, 250 communities, and 107 distinct heritage sites. These sites reflect the Hudson River Valley's natural, historic, and cultural contributions to the Nation. Many of these sites, for example, have important ties to the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, and the Underground Railroad. Recognizing this region's importance to American history, this legislation will direct the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a study assessing the suitability and feasibility of expanding the boundaries of the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area to include all of Saratoga and Washington Counties. This change would bring the Federal boundaries of the national heritage area in line with the State's boundaries. Such an expansion could increase opportunities for Saratoga and Washington Counties to attract more tourism and support local economic development without adding to the Federal estate. I praise Representative Stefanik for her leadership on this issue and for her work this Congress advocating on behalf of her constituents.…”