American Battlefield Protection Program Enhancement Act of 2023

American Battlefield Protection Program Enhancement Act of 2023

This bill expands the National Park Service's American Battlefield Protection Program.

The bill expands the battlefield acquisition grant program to allow grants to be (1) awarded to Indian tribes and nonprofit organizations, and (2) awarded to acquire certain Revolutionary War or War of 1812 battlefields.

The bill expands eligibility for the battlefield restoration grant program to include battlefield land that is owned by a state, tribe, local government, or nonprofit organization.

Not later than 2 years after this bill's enactment and every 10 years thereafter, the American Battlefield Protection Program must report to Congress on preservation activities and the condition of battlefields.

The American Battlefield Protection Program Enhancement Act of 2023, also known as Bill 118 hr 3448, aims to enhance the American Battlefield Protection Program (ABPP) by providing additional resources and support for the preservation of historic battlefields across the United States. The ABPP was established in 1996 to help protect and preserve significant battlefields from the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War.

This bill seeks to expand the ABPP's grant program, which provides funding to states, local governments, and non-profit organizations for the acquisition and preservation of battlefield sites. It also aims to increase public awareness of the importance of preserving these historic sites through educational programs and outreach efforts.

Additionally, the American Battlefield Protection Program Enhancement Act of 2023 includes provisions to improve the documentation and inventory of battlefield sites, as well as to promote partnerships between federal, state, and local entities to coordinate preservation efforts. The bill also calls for the establishment of a National Battlefield Register to recognize and protect the most significant battlefields in the country. Overall, this legislation is designed to strengthen the ABPP and ensure that America's historic battlefields are preserved for future generations to learn from and enjoy.