Bill > S3363

This bill establishes the Alabama Black Belt National Heritage Area in Alabama, consisting of land in several counties. The Center for the Study of the Black Belt at the University of West Alabama shall be the local coordinating entity responsible for preparing and submitting a management plan for the heritage area. The bill outlines the authorities and duties of the local coordinating entity, including the ability to make grants, enter into cooperative agreements, and undertake activities that further the purposes of the National Heritage Area. The bill also specifies the requirements for the management plan, the process for its approval by the Secretary of the Interior, and provisions regarding the relationship to other federal agencies and private property rights. Additionally, the bill authorizes $10 million in appropriations over 15 years to support the National Heritage Area, with a 50% cost-sharing requirement.