John Hansen: “Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4613 was introduced by the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Souder) and amends the National Historic…”

“Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4613 was introduced by the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Souder) and amends the National Historic Preservation Act for purposes of establishing a National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Program. This legislation has been a long time coming, and the gentleman from Indiana is to be congratulated in working hard to get all parties to agree to this bill. Specifically, H.R. 4613 establishes a process for the conveyance of excess historic lighthouses from Federal ownership to eligible entities who have agreed to the terms and conditions of the conveyance. Eligible entities can include Federal, State or local agencies, along with nonprofit corporations and community development organizations. The bill also provides for the establishment of a national historic light station program to collect information on, foster educational programs relating to, and maintaining a listing of historic light stations. Mr. Speaker, lighthouses and light stations have long played an important role in our Nation's history.”