Endless Mountains National Heritage Area Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. McCormick, David [R-PA]
- Committees
- Energy and Natural Resources Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 17, 2026
Bottom line
The bill formally establishes a new National Heritage Area in Pennsylvania, providing federal recognition and time-limited support for local conservation and economic development efforts.
What it actually does
This bill designates the Endless Mountains National Heritage Area in Pennsylvania as a new component of the National Heritage Area System. It specifies the initial counties included in the area and names the Endless Mountains Heritage Region, Inc. as the local coordinating entity. The bill also requires this entity to submit a management plan within three years and sets a 15-year limit on federal assistance for the area.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that designating the Endless Mountains National Heritage Area will preserve the region's unique natural, cultural, and historical resources, promote heritage tourism, and stimulate economic development. They contend that federal recognition and support will help local communities protect their heritage while attracting visitors and investment.
Opponents contend
No specific organized opposition is typically raised against the designation of National Heritage Areas, as they are often locally driven initiatives focused on conservation and economic benefits. Potential concerns, if any, might relate to the allocation of federal resources or the balance between local control and federal oversight.
The bill is very short and clearly written, making it highly accessible for any reader to understand its core provisions and implications quickly.
Section 2(a)
Designation of Endless Mountains National Heritage Area
This provision formally designates the Endless Mountains National Heritage Area in Pennsylvania as a component of the National Heritage Area System. It specifies that the area will include Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna, and Wyoming Counties, along with any other portions identified in a feasibility study. It also names the Endless Mountains Heritage Region, Inc. as the local coordinating entity responsible for managing the area.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this designation will preserve the region's unique natural, cultural, and historical resources, promote heritage tourism, and foster economic development through federal recognition and support, benefiting local communities and the broader public.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against the designation of National Heritage Areas themselves, as they are often locally driven and focused on conservation and economic benefits. Concerns might revolve around federal involvement or funding priorities, but not the designation itself.
Tradeoffs
The primary tension is balancing local control and initiative in managing the heritage area with federal oversight and funding guidelines. There is also a balance between promoting tourism and preserving the natural and cultural integrity of the area.
Section 2(b)
Management Plan Requirement
This section mandates that the Endless Mountains Heritage Region, Inc., as the local coordinating entity, must submit a proposed management plan for the new National Heritage Area to the Secretary of the Interior for approval. This plan must be submitted within three years of the bill's enactment and will outline how the heritage area's resources will be managed and preserved.
Section 2(c)
Termination of Federal Assistance Authority
This provision establishes a sunset clause for federal assistance to the Endless Mountains National Heritage Area. The authority of the Secretary of the Interior to provide financial and technical assistance under the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act will terminate 15 years after the date of enactment of this Act, requiring the local entity to become self-sufficient.