Cahokia Mounds Mississippian Culture Study Act
Cahokia Mounds Mississippian Culture Study Act
Plain Language Summary
# Summary: Cahokia Mounds Mississippian Culture Study Act **What the bill would do:** This bill would direct the Department of the Interior to study whether three ancient Native American archaeological sites in the Collinsville, Illinois area should become part of the National Park System. The sites being studied are Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, Emerald Mounds, and Pulcher Mounds—all linked to the Mississippian culture that flourished in North America centuries ago. The study would assess the national importance of these sites, evaluate whether they should become a national park unit, and explore other preservation options through state or local governments and nonprofits. **Who it affects:** The bill primarily affects residents of Illinois and visitors to the region, though it could have broader implications for how Native American cultural heritage is protected nationally.
The sites themselves are already protected as state historic sites, but this study could lead to increased federal involvement, funding, and tourism. **Current status:** The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by either chamber of Congress. It was introduced by Senator Richard Durbin (D-Illinois) in the 119th Congress.
CRS Official Summary
Cahokia Mounds Mississippian Culture Study ActThis bill directs the Department of the Interior to conduct a special resource study of an area made up of (1) Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site in Collinsville, IL; (2) the Emerald Mounds in St. Clair County, Illinois; and (3) the Pulcher Mounds in Monroe and St. Clair Counties, Illinois. (The National Park Service uses special resource studies when determining whether to designate sites as National Historical Sites.)The study mustevaluate the national significance of the study area;determine the suitability and feasibility of designating the study area as a unit of the National Park System;consider other alternatives for preservation, protection, and interpretation of the study area by other governmental entities or nonprofit organizations; andidentify cost estimates for any federal acquisition, development, interpretation, operation, and maintenance associated with such alternatives.Interior must report on the results of the study and make recommendations to specified congressional committees.
Latest Action
Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.