Mike Helton's statement on signing of Earnhardt Act

March 30, 2001
10:53 AM EST (1553 GMT)

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- The following is a statement from Mike Helton, president of NASCAR, regarding Thursday's signing of the Earnhardt Family Protection Act by Florida Governor Jeb Bush:

"On behalf of the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing and Teresa Earnhardt, I would like to acknowledge the efforts of those who led the charge to pass the Earnhardt Family Protection Act that was signed into law earlier today by Governor Jeb Bush.

"In addition to Governor Bush, we want to thank Senator Jim King of Jacksonville, Representative Randy Johnson of Orlando/Winter Garden, Representative Jeff Miller of Pensacola, Speaker of the House Tom Feeney of Oviedo and Senate President John McKay of Bradenton.

"These men acted swiftly during a very difficult time for Teresa and the entire Earnhardt family and they are to be commended for their efforts.

"I would also like to extend our thanks to fans of NASCAR and fans of Dale Earnhardt, both in and outside the state of Florida who took the time to voice their support of the act to the Florida State House.

"We encourage those of you in support of the Act to send notes of thanks or acknowledgement to these individuals."