H.R.1704 - Revitalizing and Empowering Freedom Settlements Through Opportunity, Resilience, and Education Act; RESTORE Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1704, the RESTORE Act, aims to establish the National Freedom Settlements Preservation Program within the National Park Service. The bill seeks to identify, research, preserve, and commemorate Freedom Settlements (communities established by formerly enslaved African Americans). It authorizes grants and studies to support these settlements and their historical significance.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would lead to increased federal recognition and funding for Freedom Settlements. This could result in enhanced preservation efforts, increased tourism, and improved community development in these historically significant areas. The program aims to address historical inequities and promote a more complete understanding of American history.
Potential Benefits
- Increased recognition and preservation of African American history and culture.
- Potential for economic development through heritage tourism.
- Improved access to resources and support for historically disadvantaged communities.
- Enhanced understanding of racial equity and community resilience.
- Promotion of collaborative efforts between federal, state, local, and tribal entities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for bureaucratic inefficiencies in grant allocation and program management.
- Risk of disputes over property rights and historical interpretation.
- Limited funding may not adequately address the needs of all Freedom Settlements.
- Possible gentrification or displacement of current residents due to increased tourism.
- The program may create a dependence on federal funding for these communities.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's broad goals of promoting the general welfare and ensuring domestic tranquility, as stated in the Preamble. It also indirectly relates to the Fourteenth Amendment's Equal Protection Clause by addressing historical inequities faced by African American communities. The establishment of the National Freedom Settlements Preservation Program falls under Congress's power to regulate and manage federal lands and historical sites.
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).