Bill would study historic war sites and authorize battlefield grants

The proposal would extend the stated authorization for the battlefield acquisition grant program through 2035. This applies to the battlefield acquisition grant program. The authorization date would be 2035.

The proposal would change a figure from 50 to 75 in each of two battlefield grant programs and remove other subsections. This applies to the battlefield interpretation modernization and battlefield restoration grant programs. The excerpt does not explain what the figures measure or what rules the removed subsections contain. The proposal sets aside an authorization of $2 million for each fiscal year through 2035 for grants under the interpretation and restoration programs; spending would still depend on Congress providing the money.

The Interior Secretary, acting through the National Park Service Director, would study sites tied to major events in two wars and report the results to Congress. The studies cover sites and structures in the United States tied to nationally significant events in the French and Indian War of 1754–1763 and the Mexican-American War of 1846–1848. They must identify sites, assess their importance and threats, and consider preservation options, including possible national park status. The Secretary must consult affected states, Tribes, local governments, preservation groups, and other interested people or organizations. The studies must consider earlier reports and may include information from them. The Secretary must send the study results to the appropriate congressional committees within two years after study funds become available.