Las Vegas Sun

March 28, 2024

LETTER TO THE EDITOR:

Nevadans in Congress take monumental legislative step

I want to express my gratitude and support to Nevada Reps. Dina Titus, Jacky Rosen and Ruben Kihuen, who joined 59 other legislators to co-sponsor HR6410, the America’s Natural Treasures of Immeasurable Quality Unite, Inspire, and Together Improve the Economies of States Act of 2018. This act would ensure that all national monuments (including our own Gold Butte and Basin and Range) remain as designated and that management plans for new monuments are developed within a two-year time frame. The act also establishes additional wilderness areas in Nevada and New Mexico.

Per the original Antiquities Act of 1906, presidential proclamations designating national monuments are valid and can only be reduced or diminished by an act of Congress. The new act clarifies this and ensures that national monuments receive additional resources so they will continue to provide economic, recreational and cultural benefits to their respective states and to the country. It is imperative that we pass this legislation so our grandchildren are afforded the same opportunities we have had to enjoy national monuments.