Press Releases

Congressman Johnson Commends Senate Passage of the Save the Liberty Theatre Act

Legislation has now passed both chambers; moves to the White House for President’s signature

Washington, March 31, 2022

WASHINGTON, March 31, 2022 — United States Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04) today commended Senate passage of the Save the Liberty Theatre Act—legislation to give the City of Eunice, Louisiana, full ownership of the Liberty Theatre and its annex, so the community can move forward with its restoration efforts. Congressman Johnson introduced the legislation in the House, and Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) introduced the legislation in the Senate.

“With a proper restoration, this special landmark will be enjoyed for generations to come,” Johnson said. “I commend Senator John Kennedy for so capably guiding this bill through the Senate and we look forward to President Biden’s signature.”

“The Liberty Theatre is a historic part of Eunice’s culture. The Save the Liberty Theatre Act will cut through bureaucratic hurdles so that Eunice can restore this century-old part of their community. It was a pleasure to work with Congressman Johnson to preserve this jewel of Acadiana,” Kennedy said.

Background on the Save the Liberty Theatre Act:

  • The legislation requires the National Park Service (NPS) to transfer its partial ownership of the Liberty Theatre to the City of Eunice.
  • The NPS owns a section of the historic venue that was constructed in recent years to provide a disabled-accessible entrance. However, efforts to restore the theatre are currently hindered by the NPS’s ownership interest in the property. The legislation grants full ownership of the theatre to the City of Eunice.
  • The United States House of Representatives on March 16 passed the legislation by a vote of 422-4, with Congressman Johnson as the lead House sponsor.
  • The United States Senate today passed the legislation unanimously, with Senator John Kennedy as the lead Senate sponsor.
  • The legislation now goes to President Biden for his signature.

Congressman Johnson is the Vice Chairman of the House Republican Conference, a member of the House Judiciary and Armed Services Committees, and a former constitutional law litigator.