Bill to name Mastodon the national fossil passes Senate

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) – A bill that would name the mastodon the U.S. national fossil has now passed the senate and moves to the House of Representatives.

The National Fossil Act was introduced by Indiana Senator Mike Braun and Michigan Senator Gary Peters. According to a release, the bill aims to celebrate the unique natural history of the United States and encourage interest in paleontology.

“Mastodons embody the spirit of exploration, resilience and strength that exemplifies our great nation,” said Senator Braun. “As a uniquely American symbol, mastodons inspire us to embrace our heritage and to protect our country’s natural treasures. I hope making Indiana’s state fossil our national fossil will inspire young Hoosiers to take an interest in our country’s rich natural history that may be in their own backyard.”

A release from Senator Braun’s office notes mastodons have been found in nearly every Indiana county, including notable discoveries in Hebron, Fort Wayne and Seymour.

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