Jim Costa: “During National Park Week, we celebrate, perhaps, America's best idea and remember that these parks belong to all the…”

“During National Park Week, we celebrate, perhaps, America's best idea and remember that these parks belong to all the people of America. Since they are part of our national heritage, it is every American's obligation to ensure that we preserve these national treasures for the next generation. Yosemite is one of the crown jewels of our national park system, and it has a special place in the hearts of Californians, as well as this Californian. Today, I'm introducing a bill with Senator Dianne Feinstein that would expand Yosemite National Park to include 1,600 acres that were originally intended to be part of the park. This would restore the park to its original vision and protect its most vulnerable western border. Our bill has the broad bipartisan support of local government, State officials, and many other groups. It has been said that there is nothing more American than our national park system. With this bill, we are restoring this national treasure to its original boundary and showing that we remain dedicated to this truly American idea. ____________________”