Press Releases

Washington, D.C. – Today, the US House of Representatives passed by a vote of 285 – 140, HR 146, the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009, which is a compilation of over 160 bills intended to protect millions of acres of wilderness and miles of national wild and scenic rivers.  It will also establish three new national park units, four new national trails and more.  The Lifetime Innovations of Thomas Edison (LITE) Act, which is part of the omnibus legislation, honors the life and accomplishments of New Jersey's own Thomas Edison, whose innovations continue to shape our lives today.

Thomas Edison is considered one of the most prolific inventors in history.  In fact, he holds over 1,000 patents in the United States, the United Kingdom, France and Germany.  From the first industrial research laboratory to the first incandescent light bulb, Mr. Edison has had a hand in technological advancements that have helped to usher society into the modern times.  His keen eye for invention as well as business helped to spur America's industrial revolution and continues to affect how business is done today.

The LITE Act will preserve the intellectual and physical accomplishments of Thomas Edison by commemorating his lifetime achievements; re-designating the Edison National Historic Site, located in West Orange, NJ, as a National Historic Park; and authorizing appropriations to support the site.

Congressman Payne stated, "Mr. Edison's home and research laboratory, in West Orange, has for many decades kept his legacy of innovation alive.  This historical site is an archive of some of America's major milestones.  I am glad that we have the opportunity to honor him and his many achievements."