Last week, Rep. Nick LaLota (R-Suffolk County) spoke in support of protecting and preserving Plum Island at a hearing for the Natural Resources Committee. At the hearing, LaLota questioned National Park Service Deputy Director Mike Reynolds and Louise Harrison of Save the Sound on the importance of protecting Plum Island and what can be done to build support for and advance the Plum Island National Monument Act.
“Last year, I introduced my first bill to protect Plum Island for future generations. Recently, I had the privilege of visiting Plum Island with my colleague from the other side of the aisle, Representative Courtney from Connecticut. The visit confirmed the critical need of protecting and preserving the island,” said LaLota. “Over the past 15 months, I’ve spoken to hundreds of constituents and advocacy groups on the important work that is ahead to preserve Plum Island, and I will continue my work to do just that. This hearing put us one step closer to protecting and preserving it for years to come.”
To watch LaLota’s testimony, click HERE.
To watch LaLota’s questioning of National Park Service Deputy Director Mike Reynolds, click HERE.
To watch Louise Harrison’s testimony, click HERE.
To watch LaLota question Harrison, click HERE.
Background:
In March 2023, LaLota introduced the Plum Island National Monument Act as his first piece of legislation. This bill would establish Plum Island, N.Y. as a national monument for ecological conservation, historical preservation, and the discovery and celebration of our shared cultural heritage.
Plum Island, New York is located in Southold Township about three miles from Orient, New York. In 1954, the Plum Island Animal Disease Center (PIADC) was established on the island and managed by the United States Department of Agriculture. In 2002, the Department of Homeland Security was tasked with continuing the operation. The laboratory researched foreign animal diseases and worked to prevent the introduction and spread of such diseases. After significant community concerns, in 2005, the PIADC was ordered to close and relocate to Manhattan, Kansas. The Department of Agriculture and the Department of Homeland Security are still deconstructing the PIADC.
The Department of Homeland Security originally was required by law to sell Plum Island to the highest bidder, however, former Congressman Lee Zeldin successfully passed legislation to repeal that requirement. Rep. LaLota’s legislation would ensure that Plum Island’s natural habitat is protected and preserved for generations to come.