American Battlefield Protection Program Amendments Act of 2025
- Sponsor
- Sen. McCormick, David [R-PA]
- Committees
- Energy and Natural Resources Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 30, 2026
Bottom line
This bill expands and extends federal support for battlefield preservation and interpretation, increasing the federal share of grant funding and initiating studies for new historical sites.
What it actually does
This bill reauthorizes the Battlefield Acquisition Grant Program until 2035 and increases the federal cost-share for Battlefield Interpretation Modernization and Battlefield Restoration Grant Programs from 50% to 75%. It also authorizes $2,000,000 annually for these two grant programs through fiscal year 2035. Additionally, the bill mandates studies of French and Indian War and Mexican-American War sites for potential preservation and interpretation by the National Park Service.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this bill strengthens efforts to preserve nationally significant historic battlefields and sites, making it easier for state, local, and tribal governments, and other entities to undertake critical preservation and interpretation projects by reducing their financial burden. They would also highlight the importance of studying French and Indian War and Mexican-American War sites, ensuring a more comprehensive approach to American history.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that increasing the federal cost-share places a greater burden on federal taxpayers for projects that could be more substantially funded by state, local, or private entities. They might also question the necessity of new studies for historical sites, suggesting resources could be better directed to existing programs or other priorities.
The bill is very short and clear, making it highly accessible for a reader to understand its provisions quickly.
Section 2(a)
Reauthorization of Battlefield Acquisition Grant Program
This section extends the authorization for the Battlefield Acquisition Grant Program, which helps acquire and preserve historic battlefield land, from its current expiration in 2028 to 2035. This ensures the program can continue to operate and receive funding for an additional seven years, supporting ongoing efforts to protect irreplaceable historical sites.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that extending this program is crucial for the ongoing protection of irreplaceable historic battlefields, preventing their loss to development and ensuring future generations can learn from these sites.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against the reauthorization of established battlefield preservation programs, though some might question the overall federal spending on such initiatives.
Tradeoffs
The primary tension is balancing federal spending priorities with the desire for historical preservation.
Section 2(b)(1) and 2(c)(1)
Increased Federal Cost-Share for Interpretation and Restoration Grants
This provision amends existing law to increase the federal government's share of funding for grants under the Battlefield Interpretation Modernization Grant Program and the Battlefield Restoration Grant Program. The federal contribution will rise from 50% to 75% for projects under these programs, meaning local partners will only need to cover 25% of the costs, rather than 50%. This aims to reduce the financial burden on grant recipients.
Section 2(c)(2)
Authorization of Appropriations for Interpretation and Restoration Grants
This section authorizes $2,000,000 to be appropriated annually to the Secretary of the Interior for providing grants under both the Battlefield Interpretation Modernization Grant Program and the Battlefield Restoration Grant Program. This authorization is set to run through fiscal year 2035, providing a clear funding ceiling for these programs and ensuring dedicated resources for their operation.
Section 3
Studies of French and Indian War and Mexican-American War Sites
This section directs the Secretary of the Interior, through the National Park Service, to conduct studies of sites and structures in the United States related to the French and Indian War (1754-1763) and the Mexican-American War (1846-1848). These studies will identify significant sites, assess threats, and propose preservation and interpretation alternatives, including potential designation as National Park System units. The Secretary must consult with various stakeholders and submit a report to Congress within two years of funding availability.