H.R.2345 - Ocmulgee Mounds National Park and Preserve Establishment Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2345, the Ocmulgee Mounds National Park and Preserve Establishment Act, seeks to redesignate the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park as the Ocmulgee Mounds National Park and establish the Ocmulgee Mounds National Preserve in Georgia. The bill outlines land acquisition procedures, administrative guidelines, and the establishment of an advisory council. It also addresses hunting and fishing regulations, tribal consultation, and the protection of sacred sites.
Expected Effects
The bill will expand protected areas around the Ocmulgee Mounds, enhancing conservation and recreational opportunities. It will also strengthen the role of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation in the management and interpretation of the area's cultural resources. The establishment of the advisory council ensures ongoing consultation with relevant stakeholders.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced preservation of cultural and historical resources related to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation.
- Increased tourism and recreational opportunities in the region.
- Formal recognition and involvement of the Tribe in the management of the park and preserve.
- Potential for economic benefits through job creation and tourism revenue.
- Protection of sacred sites and improved access for tribal members.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential land acquisition costs for the federal government.
- Possible conflicts between different user groups (e.g., hunters, conservationists, tribal members).
- Administrative overhead associated with managing the new park and preserve.
- Potential for restrictions on private land use within the preserve boundaries (though eminent domain is prohibited).
- Possible impact on military overflights, though the bill explicitly allows them.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the Property Clause (Article IV, Section 3), which grants Congress the power to manage and regulate federal lands. The bill's provisions for tribal consultation and protection of sacred sites are consistent with the federal government's trust responsibility to Native American tribes. The establishment of the park and preserve serves a public purpose, which is a legitimate basis for federal action. The bill does not appear to infringe on any individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution.
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).