Congressman Brian J. Mast | Brian J. Mast Official Website
Congressman Brian J. Mast | Brian J. Mast Official Website
U.S. Representative Brian Mast has introduced a resolution to rename the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure's main hearing room in honor of the late Representative Don Young. The bipartisan bill, titled the "Chairman Don Young Hearing Room," aims to pay tribute to Young's longstanding service and dedication to his home state of Alaska.
Mast, who sat next to Young for nearly six years, described him as a "fearless, resilient, mountain of a man" who had a deep love for Alaska. The renaming of the hearing room would serve as a reminder to legislators of Young's tireless advocacy for his state and his understanding of the importance of infrastructure in keeping the country moving.
Young, who held the title of the longest-serving Republican in the history of the House, passed away while serving his 25th term and 49th year in Congress. He was first elected in 1973 and served on various committees, including the Committee on Merchant Marine & Fisheries and the Committee on Post Office & Civil Service, which later became part of the modern Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure.
As Chair of the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee from 2001 to 2007, Young played a crucial role in strengthening the nation's infrastructure. He worked on legislation such as the Safe, Accountable, Flexible Efficient Transportation Act (SAFETEA-LU) to improve and maintain highways, bike paths, and other transportation systems. He also supported federal recovery efforts after Hurricane Katrina, advocated for the U.S. Coast Guard, and fought for accessible aviation systems.
Young's dedication to Alaska was unwavering, earning him the nickname "Alaska's third senator." He secured numerous investments in the state's infrastructure and championed its abundant resources. For many Alaskans, he was their sole representative in the House.
The resolution to rename the hearing room is cosponsored by Representative Mary Peltola, Young's successor in representing Alaska. The full text of the resolution can be found [here](insert link).
This bipartisan effort to honor Don Young's legacy highlights his significant contributions to transportation and infrastructure in the United States. Renaming the hearing room after him would serve as a lasting tribute to his dedication and commitment to his constituents and the nation as a whole.
Click this link to access more information: https://mast.house.gov/press-releases?ID=DFF1A172-489A-448E-9C1C-855FE3242A5B
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