Turner and First Lady Announce Historic Preservation Legislation

Press Release

Turner and First Lady Announce Historic Preservation Legislation

Congressman Michael R. Turner (R-Centerville) appeared today at the Sewell-Belmont House in Washington, D.C. with First Lady Laura Bush and Senator Hillary Clinton (D-NY) to announce H.R. 3981, the Preserve America and Save America's Treasures Act. If passed, the legislation will make permanent the Save America's Treasures and Preserve America historic preservation programs. Congressman Turner and both First Ladies all have a long history of involvement with historic preservation issues.

Saving America's Treasures was created in 1998 by President Bill Clinton and provides "bricks and mortar" support to preserve historic structures. Preserve America was started in 2001 by President George W. Bush to be used in collaboration with Saving America's Treasures to help increase historic tourism. Because both programs currently depend on executive orders for their continued existence, they could expire in a new presidential administration. H.R. 3981 would make both programs permanent.

Also attending the event was the other original cosponsor of the legislation, Congressman Brad Miller (D-NC). Congressman Turner and Congressman Miller are the co-founders and co-chairs of the Historic Preservation Caucus in the House of Representatives. Senator Pete Domenici (R-NM), who also attended the ceremony, and Senator Clinton are the legislation's original Senate co-sponsors.

"As Mayor of Dayton in 1998, I was present at the event when Senator Clinton helped to create Saving America's Treasures," Congressman Turner said. "I am honored to co-sponsor this legislation that will protect the good work of Saving America's Treasures and Preserve America. I appreciate Mrs. Bush and Senator Clinton's important work in historic preservation. I look forward to working with both of them on these issues in the future."

"With the legislation introduced this week, we can make sure more communities and historical sites across the United States are protected for our children and our grandchildren," Mrs. Bush said. "I'd especially like to thank the sponsors of this legislation—Congressman Mike Turner of Ohio, Congressman Brad Miller of North Carolina, Senator Hillary Clinton of New York, and Senator Pete Domenici of New Mexico—as well as all of the co-sponsors for their support."

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