John Hansen: “Mr. Speaker, H.R. 2833 sponsored by the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Pastor) authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to…”

“Mr. Speaker, H.R. 2833 sponsored by the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Pastor) authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to establish the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area. This bill would serve to protect and conserve the historic elements located in the Yuma community. Its purpose would be to further educational, recreational, and economic opportunities of the region. The bill also provides for measures which preserve the historic features of the Yuma Crossing. The Yuma Crossing was the national crossing place for the Colorado River. This geographic feature eventually led Yuma to become the epicenter of America's westward expansion during the mid-19th century. The area hosts many cultural, historic, and architectural resources. The management of the national heritage area is to be conducted by the Secretary and the management entity known as Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area Board of Directors. The management entity is to develop a comprehensive plan that supports the goals and operations of the heritage area and to work directly with the Secretary in the implementation of this plan. This is supported on a bipartisan basis, and I commend the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Pastor) for his efforts to preserve and enhance the Yuma area. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 2833, as amended.”