Summary
Makes the Endless Mountains region in Pennsylvania a National Heritage Area to help protect its special natural and historical places.
What problem does this solve?
The Endless Mountains region has important natural and historical value that needs special recognition and support to be preserved. This bill gives the area a special title, which helps get support and resources to protect and manage these valuable places.
Who does this affect?
- Residents of northeastern Pennsylvania
- Local businesses
- Landowners
What does this bill do?
Establishes a new national heritage area
Creates the Endless Mountains National Heritage Area in Pennsylvania, including Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna, and Wyoming Counties.
Appoints a local managing group
Names the Endless Mountains Heritage Region, Inc. as the official local group to manage the new heritage area.
Sets a deadline for a management plan
Requires the local managing group to create and submit a management plan to the Secretary of the Interior within 3 years.
Limits federal assistance
Ends the Secretary of the Interior's power to provide financial help for this area 15 years after the law is passed.
What is the real world impact?
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Preserves regional history and nature
Provides federal recognition and support to protect the unique culture, history, and natural landscapes of the Endless Mountains for future generations.
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Promotes local tourism and economic growth
Designating the area as a National Heritage Area can attract more visitors, which helps local businesses and creates jobs in the region.
When does this start?
This bill sets specific deadlines for future actions after it becomes law.
Management plan submission
The local managing group must submit a proposed management plan no later than 3 years after the bill becomes law.
End of federal assistance
The authority for the Secretary of the Interior to provide assistance ends 15 years after the bill becomes law.