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WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Brian Babin (TX-36) issued the following statement regarding sponsoring a bill to expand the Big Thicket National Preserve.

“The Big Thicket National Preserve is a treasure to our state and nation, and I’m certain all Southeast Texans will agree that it should be protected,” said Babin. “I’ve heard various concerns from constituents, county and school officials, local industry, and others about potential expansion, and I share their apprehensions. Many Americans distrust the federal government – and under this administration, I don’t blame them.

“I believe that decisions impacting our counties should be centered around the input of those who live and work there, from the ground level up – not with Big Government top-down mandates that bypass or ignore local concerns. For years, I’ve fought against proposals to disregard community feedback and clear-cut trees along the Big Thicket Parkway.

“All that said, and despite some reports to the contrary, I am not planning to sponsor a bill to expand the Big Thicket at this time without local support and buy-in.”

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