5 versions

CosmeticWhat changed in PUBLIC LAWcompared with ENROLLED BILL

Technical corrections only. The changes between v4 and v5 consist of formatting updates, the addition of Public Law details, statutory codification notes, and legislative history, typical of a bill becoming law. There are no substantive policy changes in the text.

H.R. 2215119th CongressIntroduced Mar 18, 2025

Salem Maritime National Historical Park Redesignation and Boundary Study Act

Became Public LawPublic Lands and Natural ResourcesSubstantive

View bill text

Sponsor: Rep. Moulton, Seth [D-MA-6]
Committees: Energy and Natural Resources Committee (primary)
Last action: Jul 15, 2025

Bottom line

This bill renames an existing national park unit and initiates a study for its potential expansion to include more historical resources in the Salem, Massachusetts area.

What it actually does

This bill redesignates the Salem Maritime National Historic Site in Massachusetts as the "Salem Maritime National Historical Park." Additionally, it mandates the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a three-year study to evaluate the suitability and feasibility of including additional sites and resources related to maritime, coastal defense, and military history in Salem and its vicinity as part of the newly designated park.

Proponents argue

Supporters argue that redesignating the site as a National Historical Park better reflects its broader historical significance and can enhance its recognition, potentially attracting more visitors and resources for preservation. The boundary study is seen as a proactive step to ensure comprehensive protection and interpretation of Salem's rich maritime and military heritage.

Opponents contend

No significant organized opposition is typically raised against such administrative redesignations or studies, as they are generally seen as beneficial for historical preservation and local tourism without immediately imposing new regulations or costs on private entities. Potential concerns, if any, might arise later regarding specific sites identified in the boundary study.

The bill is extremely short and clear, allowing for quick comprehension by any interested reader.

Section 2

Redesignation of Salem Maritime National Historic Site

prominently featuredstraightforward

This provision formally changes the name of the existing "Salem Maritime National Historic Site" to the "Salem Maritime National Historical Park." It also clarifies that any existing legal references to the old name will automatically be deemed references to the new name, ensuring continuity in regulations, maps, documents, and other official papers of the United States. This change is primarily administrative, aimed at updating the designation to better reflect the site's scope and importance.

GroupImpactMechanismScale

GroupNational Park ServiceImpactAdministrative change, potential for increased recognition and alignment with other National Historical Parks.MechanismStatutory redesignation of an existing unit.ScaleLocal, within the existing park unit.

GroupLocal community and touristsImpactPotential for enhanced tourism and perceived importance of the historical site.MechanismNew designation may attract more visitors and elevate the site's profile.ScaleLocal.

Supporters argue

Supporters argue that redesignating the site as a "National Historical Park" better reflects its scope and importance, aligning it with other significant historical parks in the National Park System. This change can elevate its status, potentially attracting more visitors and resources for preservation and interpretation, thereby benefiting the local economy and educational efforts.

Critics contend

No specific opposition is typically raised against such administrative redesignations, as they generally do not alter the fundamental mission or operations of the site in a controversial way. The change is largely symbolic and aimed at enhancing public perception.

Tradeoffs

The primary tension is between maintaining historical consistency in naming versus updating designations to better reflect current understanding or perceived importance. This bill prioritizes the latter for enhanced recognition and potential future benefits.

Section 3

Boundary Study for Potential Park Expansion

prominently featuredstraightforward

This section directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a comprehensive boundary study within three years after funds are made available. The study will evaluate the suitability and feasibility of including additional sites and resources in Salem, Massachusetts, and its vicinity into the newly redesignated Salem Maritime National Historical Park. The focus areas for the study include maritime history, coastal defenses, and military history, specifically mentioning the Salem Armory Visitor Center building and adjacent Salem Armory Park. The Secretary is required to report the study's results, findings, conclusions, and recommendations to Congress.

About this analysis. AI-Generated from the official bill text and available committee reports. Gaps in available data are noted explicitly. Verify important details with the official Congress.gov record.

CosmeticWhat changed in PUBLIC LAWcompared with ENROLLED BILL

H.R. 2215119th CongressIntroduced Mar 18, 2025

Salem Maritime National Historical Park Redesignation and Boundary Study Act

Became Public LawPublic Lands and Natural ResourcesSubstantive

View bill text

Sponsor: Rep. Moulton, Seth [D-MA-6]
Committees: Energy and Natural Resources Committee (primary)
Last action: Jul 15, 2025

Bottom line

This bill renames an existing national park unit and initiates a study for its potential expansion to include more historical resources in the Salem, Massachusetts area.

What it actually does

Proponents argue

Opponents contend

The bill is extremely short and clear, allowing for quick comprehension by any interested reader.

Section 2

Redesignation of Salem Maritime National Historic Site

prominently featuredstraightforward

GroupImpactMechanismScale

Supporters argue

Critics contend

Tradeoffs

Section 3

Boundary Study for Potential Park Expansion

prominently featuredstraightforward