Kinzinger Legislation to Extend I&M Canal Heritage Area

Press Release

Last week, Congressman Kinzinger (IL-16) introduced H.R. 2412, which would extend the authorization period of the Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Area (IMCNHA) -- located in Illinois' 16th Congressional District -- through 2036. Since 2008, the IMCNHA has welcomed over 600,000 visitors and created an estimated $52 million in economic development in IL-16.

On introducing this legislation, Congressman Kinzinger released the following statement:
"The Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Area was designated to protect and preserve the history of the I&M Canal, and the important role it played in the 19th Century development and growth of the State of Illinois, region, and nation. The IMCNHA is a staple attraction in the 16th District of Illinois and supports our local economy. I'm proud to introduce this legislation to ensure the IMCHNA continues on with its valued mission for years to come."
The IMCNHA was initially designated in 1984, and subsequently reauthorized several times -- the most recent of which came in 2006, when it was reauthorized for an additional 15 years. The current authorization is set to expire in October 2021. Last Congress, Congressman Kinzinger co-sponsored H.R. 1049, the National Heritage Area Act, which would re-authorize each National Heritage Area (NHA) across the country through FY2034. Congressman Kinzinger has once again co-sponsored this legislation for the 117th Congress, effective this week.
For the full text of H.R. 2412, please see the attached or view it on the Congressman's website here.

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