Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge Act

Floor Speech

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Ms. HOYLE of Oregon. Mr. Speaker, S. 1596 will codify the renaming of the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge in Texas to honor the memory of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray.

Wildlife refuges are more than places to protect our environment. They are places where so many young people are inspired to build a lifelong connection to nature and develop a sense of stewardship for the world around them.

Jocelyn Nungaray was one of those young people. She loved animals and the outdoors. Her life was tragically taken far too soon. This legislation ensures that her love for wildlife and the natural world will be remembered and honored forever at one of our Nation's most important coastal conservation areas.

Spanning 39,000 acres along Texas' Gulf Coast, this refuge is a vital sanctuary for migratory waterfowl, endangered species, and countless other wildlife. Now, it will also stand as a lasting tribute to Jocelyn's spirit and the values she held dear.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting S. 1596 and help preserve Jocelyn's legacy in a place that reflects the beauty and wonder she saw in the world. I hope that this will bring her family some semblance of peace.

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Ms. HOYLE of Oregon. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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