Senate panel advances study of three Illinois mound sites for national park status
Placed on the calendarS. 1516Latest action
Sponsor: Richard J. Durbin · Senator · IL
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Cahokia Mounds Mississippian Culture Study Act
119th Congress
Topics: Environment & energy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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S 1516 orders a study of Cahokia, Emerald and Pulcher Mounds in Illinois for possible National Park System status; it does not create a park.
50-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
The bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to study the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, the Emerald Mounds in St. Clair County, and the Pulcher Mounds in Monroe and St. Clair Counties. The study would assess national significance, whether adding the sites to the National Park System is practical, and other protection options such as state, local or nonprofit management, with federal cost estimates for each.
Who does it affect?
People who live near or visit the sites, Illinois state and local officials, and tribes with historical ties to the Mississippian culture are most directly affected. The Secretary must consult government agencies, nonprofit and private groups, other interested people, and applicable Native American tribes.
Why does it matter?
The bill does not create a park or change land ownership or management, so any later step would need separate action by Congress. The study's report, due within three years after funding is first provided, would inform whether Congress considers further action.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Based on the “Reported to Senate” text of Jul 23, 2026.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedApr 29, 2025
- Senate committee
- Senate voteYou are here · Jul 23, 2026
- House
- The president's desk
Right now: it was placed on the , and the official record shows no floor action on it since. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 478.