House Resources Committee Renamed "House Committee on Natural Resources"
"This important committee is charged with the stewardship of America's water, land and wildlife," said Rodger Schlickeisen, president of Defenders of Wildlife. "But for too long, it has treated America's natural resources as industrial commodities to be doled out to the highest bidder and disposed of unwisely and uncaringly."
"Times sure have changed," said Rodger Schlickeisen. "Just a few months ago, the House Resources Committee was chaired by Richard Pombo, the most anti-conservation member of Congress. Today the newly named House Committee on Natural Resources will be chaired by a true conservationist, Congressman Nick Rahall."
Richard Pombo was defeated by Jerry McNerney in the race for representative of California's 11th District 53-47% after an intense campaign by environmental groups to oust Pombo, who pushed a strong anti-conservation agenda as chairman.
"The small but significant step of renaming this committee hopefully signals a new recognition of the members' collective responsibility to protect and conserve our nation's natural heritage. It is my sincere belief that under the thoughtful leadership of Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Chairman Nick Rahall, the new House Committee on Natural Resources will do just that," said Schlickeisen.
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Defenders of Wildlife is recognized as one of the nation's most progressive advocates for wildlife and its habitat. With more than 500,000 members and supporters, Defenders of Wildlife is an effective leader on endangered species issues.
Contact(s):
Cindy Hoffman, (202) 772-3255William Lutz, (202) 772-0269