NAN A. S. HAYWORTH: “Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4492, introduced by the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Regula), would amend the Omnibus Parks and Public…”

“Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4492, introduced by the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Regula), would amend the Omnibus Parks and Public Lands Management Act of 1996 to extend the authorization for certain National Heritage Areas, and for other purposes. The bill was subsequently amended by the Committee on Resources where five additional titles were added. As amended, Title I would extend the existing authorities of six established National Heritage Areas. Titles II and VI would establish the National Aviation Heritage Area in Ohio and the Oil Region National Heritage Area in northwestern Pennsylvania, respectively. Titles III, IV, and V would make technical changes to two existing National Heritage Areas and one Heritage Trail Route. The existing Heritage Areas seek to transition their management authority to a nonprofit organization, which is in line with more recent Heritage Area management, and the Trail Route seeks to produce an economic feasibility plan in an effort to move away from Federal appropriations. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4492 is supported by the majority and minority of the committee. I urge adoption of this legislation.”