Saratoga, N.Y. - Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has sent a letter to Speaker Pelosi and Leader McCarthy requesting that language be included in any future stimulus or recovery package to allow the National Park Service (NPS) to temporarily waive the matching requirements for all National Heritage Areas in Fiscal Year 2020 and Fiscal Year 2021. As corporate, local and state governments commitments lag in the face of this economic turmoil caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, many National Heritage Areas will find it difficult to secure the required one-to-one match for federal funds. This temporary waiver will ensure they can spend their federal funds without delay.
“The North Country is home to a number of historical areas, including a portion of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor,” said Congresswoman Stefanik. “As our communities face the economic turmoil caused by COVID-19, our National Heritage Areas must be supported in order to keep museums, visitors centers, and educational programs up and running. I am proud to be an outspoken advocate for our National Heritage Areas as I see the important role they play in stimulating our local economies and preserving our heritage.”
