Today, I was proud to receive the Friend of the National Parks Award from the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), one of the foremost organizations dedicated to preserving and enhancing America's national parks system. NPCA gave this award to legislators who voted during the last session of Congress to uphold the standards and integrity of the National Park System, including votes to protect national parks along the U.S.-Mexico border, keep certain parks closed to hunting, and honor the Buffalo Soldiers for their role in protecting Yosemite and other national parks. The NPCA recognized legislators for "demonstrating a solid commitment to preserving America's national parks." You can find a list of last Congress' national parks bills and the other award recipients here.
I am extremely grateful for this award, but I know that our work is far from over. In the months and years ahead, I will continue working with my colleagues in Congress to ensure that places like Yellowstone, Gettysburg, and the Everglades are preserved and protected for our children and grandchildren to enjoy.