Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. letter to J. M., March 18, 1996

Congress of tfjc ®niteb States $ou« of EtprcSentattotS (SHaetjington, ©C 20515-2002 March 18, 1996 Dear Thank you for contacting me regarding H. R. 2413, also known as “The Tongass Transfer and Transition Act.” As you know, H. R. 2413, sponsored by Rep. Don Young (R- Alaska), proposes turning over management of the Tongass National Forest to the State of Alaska. However, the State of Alaska must first agree to such a transfer within a specified period of time before it could take place. Some have claimed that this legislation poses a threat to the Tongass because it would eliminate federal standards prohibiting development of this region. However, I fail to see the harm in allowing the citizens of Alaska to determine for themselves how best to utilize their state’s natural resources. Many Alaskans, like Representative Young, support increased logging in areas such as the Tongass in order to combat a statewide timber shortage that has closed many saw mills. Others believe that current environmental protections should remain unchanged. Alaskans of both views should have the chance to participate in a free and open statewide debate. They are best equipped to resolve this important issue in a way that serves their state’s economic and ecological interests. H. R. 2413 is currently in the House Agriculture Committee. Please be assured that 1 will keep your views in mind as this bill progresses through the legislative process. In the meantime, thanks for writing. Please feel free to contact me again if I may be of assistance. Sincerely Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. Member of Congress