Fort Pillow National Battlefield Park Study Act

# Fort Pillow National Battlefield Park Study Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would authorize the Department of the Interior to conduct a comprehensive study of Fort Pillow in Tennessee to determine whether it should become a national battlefield park. Fort Pillow is the site of a significant Civil War battle in 1864. The study would examine the historical importance of the location, its current condition, whether it meets the standards for national park designation, and what would be needed to establish and operate it as a park. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill primarily affects Tennessee residents and Civil War history enthusiasts, as well as the local community around Fort Pillow. If passed, it would not immediately create a park—instead, it would fund and require a feasibility study.

The study would assess the site's historical significance, evaluate existing infrastructure, and determine management costs. The results would then inform Congress on whether to formally designate Fort Pillow as a national battlefield park. **Current Status** As of now, the bill (HR 926) is in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was introduced by Representative Steve Cohen, a Democrat from Tennessee.