Niki Tsongas: “As we know, H.R. 5532 establishes the Reconstruction Era National Historical Park in and around Beaufort, South…”

“As we know, H.R. 5532 establishes the Reconstruction Era National Historical Park in and around Beaufort, South Carolina, to honor, protect, and preserve the historic structures and other resources from that chapter in American history. We know how effective that kind of protection can be. Recognizing the importance of highlighting the resources in Beaufort, President Obama used the Antiquities Act to designate the site as a national monument. This bill is an important follow-up to that original designation. It will ensure permanent protection and provide steady guidelines for future management. I want to thank Mr. Clyburn for his hard work throughout the initial designation process and the development of this bill. Without his leadership, this project would not have come this far, and he deserves our recognition. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.”