Washington, D.C. – Thursday, Congressman DeSaulnier’s first bill as a Member of Congress was passed in the House Committee on Natural Resources with bipartisan support. The John Muir National Historic Site Expansion Act (H.R.1289) would add 44 acres of land of the Martinez historic site that celebrates the life and legacy of John Muir. The additional 44 acres will improve access to the park and trails for the public. The John Muir National Historic Site, which stretches across 330 acres currently, includes the home where Muir lived until he died in 1914.
The bill was passed by unanimous consent and now can be brought for a vote on the floor of the House of Representatives. Senator Barbara Boxer introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.
“I am proud of this bi-partisan effort to honor Contra Costa’s own John Muir and create more national park space in the East Bay for area residents to enjoy. We are very grateful to be working with our predecessor, Congressman George Miller, and with Senator Barbara Boxer who introduced the companion bill in the Senate. I look forward to seeing this bill passed by the House and on its way to becoming law,” said Congressman DeSaulnier.
“John Muir Land Trust is truly grateful to Congressman DeSaulnier for his important work in advancing this legislation. This bill will help permanently protect wildlife habitat, air quality, water quality and the conservation legacy of John Muir. The property will be open for public recreation and benefit the entire region, including visitors from around the world to the NPS John Muir National Historic Site,” said Linus Eukel, Executive Director of the John Muir Land Trust.
