[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 164 (Wednesday, September 22, 2021)]
[House]
[Page H4877]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       FUNDING FOR THE NATIONAL MARITIME HERITAGE GRANTS PROGRAM

  (Mr. HIGGINS of New York asked and was given permission to address 
the House for 1 minute.)
  Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the 
amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act authorizing funding 
for the National Maritime Heritage Grants Program.
  The competitive matching grant program, intended to enhance public 
awareness, education, and appreciation for United States maritime 
history, has not issued grants for the last serve years due to lack of 
funding.
  The Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park in my community 
is home to several decommissioned Naval vessels that serve as floating 
museums, allowing visitors to be immersed in the incredible stories of 
historic military battles and brave U.S. soldiers.
  Without resources, ships like these across the country are 
deteriorating and, in some cases, are literally sinking.
  I ask my colleagues to support our amendment authorizing $10 million 
for the National Maritime Heritage Grants Program and join me in 
protecting irreplaceable maritime history from being lost forever.

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