Washington, D.C. – Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE) announced that the U.S. House of Representatives today passed his legislation directing the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a study on the feasibility of designating the Chief Standing Bear National Historic Trail (H.R. 5806).

Fortenberry spoke before the House of Representatives in support of the legislation earlier today. A video of his remarks can be found below:

“The story of the Ponca Chief [Standing Bear] is a story of strength, grace, and dignity in the protection of the most basic of human rights. I also believe it is a story that needs to be told again and again, understood, and cherished by all Americans of coming generations. Mr. Speaker, I believe that establishment of the Chief Standing Bear National Historic Trail would honor both the courage and legacy of this brave individual and his contribution to the civil liberties of our nation.”

The legislation now moves to the U.S. Senate for consideration.
Fortenberry is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.