Congressman McCarthy’s Statement on Action Taken by the House on Backcountry Access Act

Washington D.C. – Congressmen Kevin McCarthy (CA-22) today applauded swift action that the House has taken to pass a bill that would restore access to the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks for backcountry horsemen.

"I commend the House for acting quickly and decisively three weeks ago on legislation that would save hundreds of jobs in the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks," said Congressman McCarthy. "Last night, the Senate passed a significantly revised version of the bill, about which I have reservations. However, bottom line is that local pack and stock operations support the bill, and the House acted swiftly today to send it to the President. I call on the President to sign this legislation into law, and for Interior Secretary Salazar to immediately begin issuing permits to allow these small businesses to continue to operate."

The Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Backcountry Access Act (H.R. 4849) was passed in the House today. Congressman McCarthy joined House Resources Chairman Doc Hastings and the bipartisan House leadership in support of swift action on this legislation. It passed the House with unanimous consent and is currently being sent to the President.