LaHood seeks extended funding for Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area

U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood (R-IL) on Nov. 18 sponsored a bipartisan bill that would extend the authorization of financial assistance through 2038 for the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area (ALNHA) located in central Illinois.

The Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area Reauthorization Act, H.R. 6035, has 11 original cosponsors from Illinois, including U.S. Reps. Rodney Davis (R-IL), Mike Bost (R-IL), Adam Kinzinger (R-IL), and Cheri Bustos (D-IL).

“The Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area is part of the fabric that makes up central Illinois and it is home to the unique collection of Lincoln history, offering an in-depth look at the life of our 16th president,” Rep. LaHood said. “I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort with my colleagues from Illinois, and I will continue to work in Congress to preserve the legacy of Lincoln.”

If enacted, H.R. 6035 would allow Illinois to continue to promote the important historical, cultural and recreational opportunities provided at the ALNHA, the only heritage area named for an American president. 

“The Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area tells the story of President Abraham Lincoln’s 30 years living, working and traveling in central Illinois while he unknowingly prepared himself to lead the nation during a time of unprecedented challenges,” according to the National Park Service website.

Sarah Watson, executive director at the ALNHA and Looking for Lincoln Heritage Coalition, endorsed the bill, which has been referred to the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee for consideration.

“As the congressman for the 18th District of Illinois, it’s an honor to represent parts of Springfield and the same district that Abraham Lincoln did during his one term in Congress,” said Rep. LaHood.