Interior Department ordered to study Monterey historic park for national status

What does this do?

HR 8735 directs the U.S. Department of the Interior to study Lower Presidio Historic Park in Monterey, California, to determine whether it should become a National Park. The Secretary of the Interior would have three years after funding is approved to complete the study and report findings to Congress. The study would assess historical significance, practicality, affordability, federal management costs, and alternative preservation arrangements involving state, local, tribal, or private entities.

Who does it affect?

The bill directly affects the federal government, particularly the Interior Department, which would carry out the study. It also involves the City of Monterey, which currently leases and operates the park, as well as local Native American tribes and organizations connected to the site.

Why does it matter?

Because the bill only orders a study rather than a change in park status, residents face no immediate changes to the site or its operations. The study's findings would be reported to Congress, which could inform future decisions about the park's management and designation.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Federal management costs to be studied
• No funding amount specified in bill
• Funding approval starts 3-year clock