Gregorio Sablan: “I thank the gentleman for yielding me time. From his days in the California State House and now here in Congress…”

“I thank the gentleman for yielding me time. From his days in the California State House and now here in Congress, Congressman Jared Huffman has been a leader in protecting our valuable natural resources. H.R. 1411 is a fine example of this commitment and office leadership. Congressman Huffman's bill incorporates the area known as the Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands into the California Coastal National Monument. The bill gives permanent protection to 1,255 acres of wetlands along the Mendocino County coast. The area provides habitat for endangered species, including the Point Arena mountain beaver and the Behren's silverspot butterfly. The Garcia River running through it shelters steelhead and silver and king salmon. While I have the floor, I also want to commend Congressman Huffman for his efforts to protect sharks. In the California Legislature, Congressman Huffman wrote the law banning wasteful trade in shark fins. Here in Congress, he led the effort to protest when the Commerce Department proposed regulations preempting State laws against shark finning. The Northern Mariana Islands, which I represent, has enacted a similar law. So along with other Members who respect State authority, I cosigned Congressman Huffman's letter asking NOAA to withdraw its proposed regulation. Again, I commend Mr. Huffman for his dedication to protecting our natural resources, and I ask all my colleagues to support H.R. 1411.”