Washington, D.C. – Congressman Jeff Fortenberry announced that the House Natural Resources Committee 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 previously testified before the Subcommittee on Public Lands and Environmental Regulation in support of the trail designation.
“The story of the great Ponca Chief Standing Bear is one of strength, grace, and dignity in the most basic protection of human rights, and needs to be cherished by Americans of future generations,” Fortenberry said. “I have long been supportive of establishing the Chief Standing Bear National Historic Trail that would honor his courage and great contribution to the freedom and civil liberties of this nation. I believe this legislation is an important first step toward establishing the trail, and I look forward to consideration before the House.”
The legislation now awaits action by the House of Representatives.
Fortenberry is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.