Smucker Introduces Bill to Honor Heritage of Susquehanna Valley
WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Friday, U.S. Rep. Lloyd Smucker (R-Pa.) introduced legislation to highlight and honor the natural beauty of our region and its place in American history.
The Susquehanna National Heritage Area Act would designate parts of the 11th District (Lancaster and York Counties) as NHAs. NHA designations recognize important natural, cultural and historic landscapes and help celebrate the nation's diverse heritage. Smucker first introduced the legislation in 2017. The House approved the same measure with bipartisan support last year by a vote of 379-9.
"Our communities are filled with natural beauty and countless resources we need to maintain," Smucker said. "It's important we keep these places clean and safe for visitors and residents, which is why I'm proud to sponsor this bill in the House once more."
NHAs have a significant impact on the economy. A 2012 study by the Alliance of National Heritage Areas and National Park Service showed NHAs contribute nearly $13 billion annually to the national economy and support 148,000 jobs. The economic benefit of NHAs in the Northeast Region was $5.4 billion annually and nearly 67,000 jobs.
Through public-private partnerships, NHA areas support historic preservation, natural resource conservation, recreation and heritage tourism.
Fellow Pennsylvania Republican Rep. Scott Perry joined Smucker's efforts to recognize the Susquehanna Valley's heritage as a bill cosponsor.
"I'm proud to honor the Susquehanna Valley's role in our nation's history," Perry said. "I appreciate Congressman Smucker's leadership on this issue. I'm looking forward to partnering with him in these efforts."
"I hope my colleagues in the House will continue to recognize the value of preserving our natural resources and I urge them to support this bill," Smucker said.