Grace Napolitano: “the Lincoln National Forest land exchanges takes approximately 80 acres of forest land in the Lincoln National Forest…”

“the Lincoln National Forest land exchanges takes approximately 80 acres of forest land in the Lincoln National Forest and exchanges that for private land currently owned by Lubbock Christian University. I would hope that this is in perpetuity rather than to be put up for sale at some time in the future. This has been a very grave area for me. Our committee worked hard in the 108th Congress to refine the language that would make this exchange fair to the American taxpayer. The bill we are considering today requires that the exchange be of equal value. If the land appraisers determine the parcels are not of equal value, the bill provides for equalization of values through cash payment. We are aware that land exchanges can often be controversial and contrary to the public interest. However, in this case we have worked to ensure a fair deal which both improves the National Forest by consolidating land ownership and enables Lubbock Christian University to extend its summer camp. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.”