Historic Preservation Enhancement Act
Summary
The Historic Preservation Enhancement Act aims to increase funding for the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) by amending Title 54 of the United States Code. It increases the amount deposited into the HPF to $300,000,000 annually and ensures that any shortfall in revenues is covered by the Treasury's general fund. The Act also stipulates how the funds are to be used and allocated, prioritizing State and Tribal Historic Preservation Offices.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to increased resources for preserving historical sites and cultural heritage. This includes supporting State and Tribal Historic Preservation Offices, as well as various grant programs focused on civil rights history and underrepresented communities. The Act also provides a framework for allocating these funds, giving Congress and the President authority over the allocation process.
Potential Benefits
- Increased funding for State Historic Preservation Offices.
- Increased funding for Tribal Historic Preservation Offices.
- Support for programs like the African American Civil Rights Movement Initiative & Grants.
- Support for History of Equal Rights Grants.
- Support for Survey Grants for Underrepresented Communities.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential strain on the Treasury's general fund if revenues are insufficient.
- Possible political disagreements over allocation of funds between different programs and offices.
- The Act relies on future appropriations, which are not guaranteed.
- The increased funding may not be sufficient to address all preservation needs.
- Potential for bureaucratic delays in fund allocation and distribution.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it aims to preserve cultural heritage, which can be argued to promote the general welfare. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts, and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. The Act falls under Congress's power to appropriate funds for specific purposes.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).