S.1516 - Cahokia Mounds Mississippian Culture Study Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The Cahokia Mounds Mississippian Culture Study Act (S.1516) directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a special resource study of the Cahokia Mounds, Emerald Mounds, and Pulcher Mounds in Illinois. The study aims to evaluate the national significance of these sites and determine the feasibility of designating them as a unit of the National Park System. It also requires consultation with various stakeholders and the submission of a report to Congress with findings and recommendations.
Expected Effects
This act, if passed, would lead to a comprehensive evaluation of the Cahokia Mounds and related sites. The evaluation could result in increased federal protection and potential inclusion in the National Park System. This could also lead to increased tourism and federal funding for preservation and interpretation.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced preservation of significant cultural heritage sites.
- Potential for increased tourism revenue for the State of Illinois.
- Improved understanding and awareness of Mississippian culture.
- Possible federal funding for site maintenance and development.
- Strengthened partnerships between federal, state, and local entities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased federal oversight and regulation.
- Possible displacement of local communities or restrictions on land use.
- Costs associated with conducting the study and potential site development.
- Risk of damage to the sites due to increased tourism.
- Potential conflicts between different stakeholder groups.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The act appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the Constitution, which allows Congress to provide for the general welfare of the United States. Preserving cultural heritage sites can be argued to fall under this clause. Additionally, the Property Clause (Article IV, Section 3) grants Congress the power to manage and dispose of federal property, which could be relevant if the sites are eventually incorporated into the National Park System. The act does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights.
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).