Bill > HR1581

This bill establishes the Fort Monroe National Historical Park in Virginia, transforming the existing Fort Monroe National Monument into a full national historical park. The bill creates a comprehensive framework for preserving and interpreting the site's rich historical significance, focusing on key periods and events such as the first entry of captive Africans into English North America, Captain John Smith's voyages, coastal defense and military history, the Civil War's Contraband Decision, and the formation of United States Colored Troop units. The legislation allows the Secretary of the Interior to acquire land within the park's boundaries through various means like donation or purchase, and provides detailed guidelines for the park's administration. It preserves existing federal, state, and local jurisdictional authorities while enabling cooperative agreements with various entities to support preservation and interpretation efforts. The bill also includes provisions for maintaining the historic character of the site, allowing for adaptive reuse of historic structures, and ensuring that any new construction or modifications adhere to historic preservation standards. Importantly, the bill transfers all existing resources and unobligated funds from the National Monument to the new National Historical Park, effectively continuing and expanding the site's preservation and educational mission.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1581/all-info