Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 4404, the Kissimmee River Wild and Scenic River Act to direct the Secretary of the Interior to amend the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act and designate segments of the Kissimmee River as a component of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. After efforts in the 1940s to control the Kissimmee River's flow led to issues that destroyed habitats, Congress directed the Army Corps of Engineers to restore the river back to its original path in the 1990s. The completion of this project has already contributed to the return of many wildlife species and a healthier ecosystem. This bill will ensure that the restored segments of the river are preserved for future generations to enjoy, by adding them to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. Congress created the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System in 1968 to preserve certain rivers with outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values in a free-flowing condition for the enjoyment of present and future generations. I thank my colleague, Representative Soto, for introducing this important legislation and championing it on behalf of his constituents. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes,'' and I reserve the balance of my time.”