Sponsors (15)
The bill advances federal recognition, preservation, and public education about Fort Pillow and the sacrifices of U.S.C.T., likely boosting local tourism and historical reconciliation, while imposing modest federal costs and potential limits on local land-use control.
Students, educators, and the general public will gain a federal study and improved documentation/interpretation of the Fort Pillow massacre and the role of U.S.C.T., strengthening public education and historical awareness.
State and local governments and nearby communities will receive federal preservation resources and long-term management support that protect the historic site and its resources.
Local businesses, rural communities, and tourists could see increased visitation and economic activity if Fort Pillow is elevated toward National Park unit status.
Local residents, homeowners, and state/local governments may lose land-use flexibility and decision-making if federal designation shifts control to federal management, which could restrict development or local management practices.
Taxpayers and the Department of the Interior may incur costs and staff time for the required study and any subsequent federal management, potentially diverting DOI resources from other priorities.
Taxpayers will bear a small immediate administrative cost to conduct the federal study even if the site is not ultimately designated.
Based on analysis of 3 sections of legislative text.
Requires the Interior Department to study Fort Pillow Historic State Park for suitability and feasibility of designation as a National Park System unit.
Official title: To conduct a special resource study of Fort Pillow Historic State Park in Henning, Tennessee, and for other purposes.
Introduced February 4, 2025 by Stephen Cohen · Last progress February 4, 2025
Requires the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a special resource study of Fort Pillow Historic State Park in Henning, Tennessee to evaluate its national significance and assess the suitability and feasibility of designating the site as a unit of the National Park System. The study will focus on Fort Pillow’s Civil War history and the 1864 Fort Pillow Massacre and will inform whether the site should become a national historic battlefield park.