Sanford, Huffman Push for Reauthorization of Land & Water Conservation Fund

WASHINGTON, DC - Yesterday, Representatives Mark Sanford (R-SC) and Jared Huffman (D-CA) sent a letter to Speaker Paul Ryan and Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, urging that the Land and Water Conservation Fund be permanently reauthorized as well as fully funded before it expires on September 30, 2018.

“It’s often difficult to strike the right balance between environmental stewardship and our country’s energy needs, but for the past 53 years, the Land and Water Conservation Fund has done just that,” said Rep. Sanford. “Every state has benefited from this fund. Indeed, in South Carolina, the fund has contributed almost $300 million. If we want to continue to treat our natural surroundings as though they are an investment in our future - and I strongly believe we should, then reauthorizing the Land and Water Conservation Fund is a must.”

“Over the past 50 years, the Land and Water Conservation Fund has helped preserve public lands in my district and across the country, and provided outdoor recreation opportunities for generations of Americans,” said Rep. Huffman. “Allowing this vital program to expire will not only put conservation on the line, but will also undermine the significant economic contributions of the growing outdoor recreation economy. Congress must act now to make sure future generations can experience the unique parks, lands, waters, and wildlife that benefit conservation and local economies through the Land and Water Conservation Fund.”

The text of the letter can be viewed here.