BOSTON – Senator John Kerry today announced that three bills that he introduced, along with Senator Edward Kennedy, Congresswoman Niki Tsongas, and Congressmen Barney Frank and John Tierney, have been signed into law by President Bush.

“Massachusetts has always been front and center in shaping our country’s history. From the canal ways of Lowell to Taunton’s role protesting British control of the colonies to the historic treasures in the Northeastern part of our state, these new laws will ensure that everyone will be able to enjoy our states historical landmarks for years to come,” said Senator Kerry.

The first bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to study the feasibility of creating a National Historical Park in Taunton.

The second bill provides $5 million in additional federal funding for the Essex National Heritage Area, which includes 34 towns in Northeastern Massachusetts. The funding will enable these communities to preserve and protect their cultural history.

The third bill, called the Lowell Park Boundary Expansion Act, allows the Lowell National Historical Park to adjust the park’s boundary by one acre, completing the city’s historic canal walkway.

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