Removing Restrictions From A Parcel of Land in Paducah, Kentucky

Floor Speech

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Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of my bill, H.R. 1276, to remove restrictions from a parcel of land in Paducah, Kentucky.

It is an honor to serve the people of Paducah and McCracken County in Congress. One of their community's most impactful institutions, the Oscar Cross Boys & Girls Club has been a cornerstone of support and opportunity for local youth for over 60 years.

The club is located on land currently owned by the city of Paducah, which has held the property since 2012. For over 60 years, the Oscar Cross Boys & Girls Club has been a force for good in Paducah and has had a positive impact on thousands of children who have come through its doors.

Today, the club is facing unprecedented demand. More than 100 children are currently on the waiting list due to space constraints in the existing facility.

Unfortunately, lingering Federal interest in the property dating back to the city's involvement in the Federal Lands to Parks Program decades ago has impeded progress on an exciting renovation project for the local Boys & Girls Club.

Despite strong local support from the city of Paducah and community members, this Federal restriction has hampered efforts to raise funds and begin the renovation process.

H.R. 1276 is a straightforward, commonsense bill that would lift this outdated restriction and allow the city to fully transfer the land to the Oscar Cross Boys and Girls Club. There is no time to waste in making this commonsense fix to enable this project to move forward.

I was proud to collaborate with the city of Paducah, the National Park Service, and local stakeholders to develop a legislative solution to this issue. It ensures that the Federal Government's unnecessary involvement no longer stands in the way of progress for the children of Paducah and McCracken County.

I thank Senator Paul for introducing the Senate companion bill, S. 601, and Senator McConnell for being an original cosponsor of that legislation. I look forward to working with them to get this bill across the finish line and onto President Trump's desk.

I also thank Chairman Westerman for his support and I urge passage of H.R. 1276.

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