[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 93 (Monday, July 17, 2006)]
[House]
[Page H5248]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                PROTECTING FLORIDA'S MANATEE POPULATION

  (Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of 
the bill H.R. 4075, the Marine Mammals Protection Act, legislation that 
protects a true wonder of nature, the Florida manatee.
  Living in Florida's streams, swamps, and rivers, manatees are beloved 
throughout my district and especially in Citrus County.
  The Marine Mammals Protection Act provides new and increased 
protections for the manatees from fishermen and from wildlife loss.
  Chairman Richard Pombo deserves credit for bringing this bill up for 
a vote and helping to protect one of Florida's most precious natural 
resources.
  Mr. Speaker, this legislation will provide grants and protections to 
help ensure that Florida's sea cows will be around for my 
grandchildren, my great grandchildren, and everyone to enjoy years into 
the future.
  There actually is a preserve in my area where the manatees, once they 
are injured, can go for treatment, and it is a wonderful, wonderful 
resource. Thankfully, the manatee has come back from being endangered.

                          ____________________