H.R.1031 - Fort Ontario Holocaust Refugee Shelter National Historical Park Establishment Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1031, the Fort Ontario Holocaust Refugee Shelter National Historical Park Establishment Act, seeks to establish the Fort Ontario National Monument in New York as a unit of the National Park System. The purpose is to preserve and interpret the history of the 982 Holocaust refugees housed at Fort Ontario during World War II. The bill outlines the conditions for establishment, including land acquisition and the creation of a management plan.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would lead to the creation of a new National Historical Park dedicated to the memory of Holocaust refugees. This would involve federal management and potential land acquisition within the designated area. It also mandates the creation of a management plan to guide the park's operation and preservation efforts.
Potential Benefits
- Preservation of a site of historical significance related to Holocaust refugees.
- Increased tourism and educational opportunities in the State of New York.
- Potential for cooperative agreements with state and private entities to enhance the park's interpretive and educational services.
- Protection of nationally significant historic and cultural resources.
- Potential for increased awareness and understanding of the experiences of refugees during World War II.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with land acquisition, park management, and restoration efforts.
- Possible limitations on private property rights within the park's boundaries.
- Potential for bureaucratic delays in establishing and managing the park.
- The need for ongoing funding to maintain the park and its resources.
- Possible conflicts between different stakeholders regarding the park's management and use.
Constitutional Alignment
The establishment of a National Historical Park aligns with the federal government's power to manage and protect federal lands and historical sites. This is implied through the Property Clause (Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2) which grants Congress the power to dispose of and make all needful rules and regulations respecting the territory or other property belonging to the United States. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).