“Soaring over Southern Nevada in a helicopter is an exciting and unforgettable experience, but we must balance the needs of our families and the environment with those of our tour operators and their customers. Relocating the heliport and adjusting flight patterns to protect Sloan Canyon and other nearby treasures are important compromises that will ensure protection of the environment, reduce noise pollution and allow our tour operators to continue offering their unique services to the tens of millions who visit Las Vegas each year,” said Rep. Shelley Berkley (D-NV).
Congressman Jon Porter (R-NV) said, “The explosive growth of Southern Nevada requires that we, as lawmakers, constantly seek out ways to improve our infrastructure. This legislation provides a solution that will provide greater access to the services provided by air tour operators and will reduce the burden on our communities and environment.”
H.R. 849 will provide a parcel of land for the operation of a commercial heliport in Clark County, NV. Additionally, the legislation restricts the flight path of helicopter tours over the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area. Funds from a conservation fee established in the bill will be deposited in a special account for use by the Secretary of the Interior for cultural, wildlife, and wilderness resources management on public lands in Nevada. H.R. 849 awaits action in the Senate, where companion legislation, S. 405, has been introduced by Senator Reid.
Contact U.S. Congressman Jon Porter at www.house.gov/porter/
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