Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) released the following statement on the Antiquities Act’s 111th anniversary since its passage in 1906:
“For more than a century, the Antiquities Act has allowed us to carry out the important responsibility of protecting and preserving American landscapes of cultural and historical value. It is a promise that we must continue to keep for future generations, so that they too can appreciate and enjoy the beauty of our public lands. In Nevada, our public lands and national monuments are proven economic drivers, helping fuel our outdoor recreation economy especially in rural areas. Our very own Basin and Range, and Gold Butte national monuments exemplify the vast and rich natural beauty our state has to offer, and thanks to the Antiquities Act it will remain protected for future generations to enjoy.
“In light of President Trump’s unprecedented move to call into question existing national monuments, I reaffirm my commitment to protecting our public lands and emulate the principles that drove the passage of this law. The public has shown overwhelming support for the protection of our public lands, and I stand with Nevadans in defending our legacy.”
###