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Washington, Sep 21, 2007 - Following her commitment to work with people from across the political spectrum, Representative Marilyn Musgrave was joined by Representative John Salazar in sending a letter to Senate negotiators and urged them to preserve the Musgrave-Salazar amendment regarding Pinon Canyon. Additionally, Representative Musgrave joined a bi-partisan group of House members in supporting Gold Star Mothers Day.

Musgrave joined by Rep. John Salazar in urging Senator Negotiators to Preserve Pinon Canyon Amendment
This week, Congresswoman Marilyn Musgrave (R-Ft. Morgan) called on negotiators from the Senate to preserve the Musgrave-Salazar amendment, regarding the Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site, as they resolve differences between two versions of the recent military construction bills that passed both chambers. Democratic Congressman John Salazar added his name as a signatory to Musgrave’s written petition.

Because the amendment received overwhelming support in the House and was approved in the Senate, Musgrave urged them to include her bi-partisan amendment in the final version of the Military Construction Appropriations Act for FY08 that will eventually get signed into law by the president.

“This bi-partisan amendment is on the cusp of becoming law. After gaining overwhelming support from lawmakers from around the country, I want to make sure this opportunity to protect home owners and ranchers in southeastern Colorado is not lost at the very end,” said Musgrave. “I appreciate the continued support of John Salazar on this matter and our collaboration just goes to show what lawmakers from opposing parties can do for Colorado when they come together.”

In a letter to the Senate negotiators, Congresswoman Musgrave stressed the importance protecting private property rights and the critical role this region play’s for Colorado’s economy, environment, and heritage. She stated, “For families who have been ranching in this area of the West, some since the days of homesteading, the fact that eminent domain is still an option the Army is considering is economically devastating to this region.”

Honoring the Mothers who have lost a son or daughter in military service
In 1940, President Franklin D. Roosevelt designated the last Sunday in September as “Gold Star Mothers Day” in honor of America’s mothers who have lost a son or daughter in military service.

This week, Congresswoman Musgrave joined a bi-partisan group of 80 members from across the country in supporting H.R. 605, a measure that would ensure Congress’s recognition of the sacrifice Mothers across the country have made over the years.

“I’ve spoken with mothers of fallen soldiers from Colorado and attended a funeral of a fallen soldier. I’ve seen how heartbreaking it is for a mother to lose a son in battle and it is worthy to set aside a day for our nation to recognize their courage,” said Musgrave.

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Marilyn Musgrave began serving in the United States House of Representatives in January 2003, and she represents Colorado's Fourth Congressional District. Musgrave is a member of the House Committees on Agriculture and Small Business. To learn more about Rep. Musgrave please visit her official website at http://www.house.gov/musgrave