ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has turned her eye to the Finger Lakes once again.

On April 7, Gillibrand reintroduced the Finger Lakes National Heritage Area Act, calling on Congress to recognize the region’s natural and historic significance. Gillibrand first introduced the bill in 2023, building upon a 2019 feasibility study and culminating a nearly 10-year endeavor. Congresswoman Claudia Tenney has also introduced the bill in the House of Representatives.

“Home to beautiful landscapes, rich history, and thriving small businesses, the Finger Lakes are a national treasure,” said Senator Gillibrand. “In recognition of all that this area has to offer, I’m leading the push to designate the region as a National Heritage Area. This designation will promote tourism, create jobs, conserve natural resources, and make sure local communities have what they need to thrive for years to come. I am proud to introduce this bill alongside my colleagues on the other side of the aisle, and I am committed to getting it signed into law.”

The Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance has endorsed the bill.

“We are pleased to stand with Senator Gillibrand’s office, Congresswoman Tenney’s office, and all of our regional partners as the Finger Lakes National Heritage Area legislation is reintroduced into session,” said Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance President and CEO Meghan Nulty. “While we were all saddened that the legislation did not reach the President’s desk last year, we stand firm in our commitment to the National Heritage Area designation for this region. The core motivation to seek a National Heritage Area designation for the Finger Lakes remains unchanged: to do tourism more responsibly and to honor the reasons our region is a landmark worthy of sharing with the world. Our industry stands on the shoulders of the Haudenosaunee, the suffragists, the abolitionists, and innovators that uniquely make up the story of America.”

The National Heritage Area would comprise 14 counties in the region: Cayuga, Chemung, Cortland, Livingston, Monroe, Onondaga, Ontario, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Tioga, Tompkins, Wayne, and Yates.