I rise in strong support of H.R. 47. the Statue of LibertyEllis Island Commemorative Coin Act. of which I am a cosponsor. This important legislation would authorize the U.S. mint to issue commemorative coins to help raise funds for the restoration of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. In addition. these coins would commemorate the centennial of the Statue of Liberty and the many invaluable contributions immigrants have made to America. Specifically. the bill specifies that a surcharge be added to the sale price of each coin which will be paid to the Statue of LibertyEllis Island Foundation. Mr. Speaker. we are a nation of immigrants. Our rich cultural diversity is the envy of the world. I am the son of an Irish immigrant who came to America seeking a better way of life. For my mother and father. and the millions of other proud. courageous men and women who immigrated to the United States. the Statue of Liberty was the beacon of hope and the promise of freedomEllis Island was the door to opportunity. In addition. thousands of tourists come to New York each year from across the country and around the world to see Americas symbol of liberty. justice. and freedom. Today. these historic and inspiring symbols are in a sad state of disrepair. Restoration could cost as much as $230 million. The sale of the commemorative coins as envisioned under H.R. 47 will raise $137.5 million for the restoration efforts at no cost to the Government. What better way to provide funds for the restoration of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island than through the sale of coins commemorating the meaning of these national monuments and recognizing the contributions immigrants have made to our society. I urge Members to join with me in voting for this vitally important legislation.$
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