Senate Subcommittee Holds Hearing on CIEDRA

Senate Subcommittee Holds Hearing on CIEDRA

Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson's legislation, the Central Idaho Economic Development and Recreation Act (CIERDA), H.R. 3603, had a hearing in the Senate Subcommittee on Public Lands and Forests today. The Subcommittee is chaired by Idaho Senator Larry Craig. Simpson released the following statement; to read his entire testimony, please visit his website at www.house.gov/simpson/ciedra.shtml.

"It is historic that both Senator Crapo and I testified today on separate wilderness bills that were developed in Idaho by Idahoans. Many Idahoans traveled back to Washington to testify on behalf of CIEDRA and I appreciate them taking the time to do so. Custer County Commissioner Cliff Hansen provided priceless insight on why the land transfers in my bill are so desperately needed. Rick Johnson expressed the need to preserve the Boulder-White Clouds and I appreciate Senator Crapo lending his support to my efforts.

"CIEDRA meets the needs of today's users and secures the future for generations of Idahoans who want to continue using and enjoying our beautiful Boulder-White Clouds. We have a rare opportunity to control our own destiny by crafting legislation that fits the needs of the people who live and recreate in central Idaho while creating substantive wilderness. It may well be another 25 years before we see this chance again. By enacting CIEDRA, we can put to rest many long standing conflicts and move ahead to a stronger, more secure economy in the rugged, beautiful and productive heart of Idaho.

"I appreciate Senator Craig holding today's hearing and am hopeful that we will have time for a Senate markup after the November election."

http://www.house.gov/list/press/id02_simpson/ciedra_sentatesub.html