Reps. Austin Scott and Sanford Bishop Testify On H.R. 9416 Before House Committee on Natural Resources

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Representatives Austin Scott (GA-08) and Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement after testifying before the House Committee on Natural Resources regarding H.R. 9416, the Ocmulgee Mounds National Park Redesignation Act:

"In Georgia's 8th Congressional District, and across the state, the Ocmulgee Mounds are a source of deep pride. Just as the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, and Yellowstone reflect the heritage of their regions, the Ocmulgee River corridor represents one of the most important cultural landscapes in the Southeast. By redesignating the Ocmulgee Mounds as a National Park, we can ensure that this extraordinary history is recognized at the national level and shared with visitors from across the country and around the world. I'm proud of the bipartisan work that has brought us to this point, and I look forward to continuing our efforts to move this legislation all the way to President Trump's desk and establish Georgia's first national park," said Rep. Scott.

"As our nation prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday this Saturday, it is vital that we preserve and protect our ancient history, including the stories of the indigenous peoples who lived here long before July 4, 1776," said Bishop. "Our bill today represents a small, albeit meaningful, step forward that will strengthen Ocmulgee and ensure that its cultural and religious sites are protected now and into the future."

Watch Rep. Scott's full testimony here.

Watch Rep. Bishop's full testimony here.

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