Bill Summary
The "Protecting American History Act" is a piece of legislation that mandates the restoration of interpretive and educational exhibits at Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Secretary of the Interior is required to restore any exhibits that were removed from public display after January 21, 2026, to their original condition as they appeared on that date, within 15 days of the act's enactment. Furthermore, the act prohibits the Secretary from making any changes to these exhibits—such as adding, removing, or altering them—without explicit authorization from Congress. The legislation aims to preserve and protect the historical integrity of the exhibits at this significant national park.
Possible Impacts
The "Protecting American History Act" could affect people in the following ways:
1. **Enhanced Educational Opportunities**: By restoring interpretive and educational exhibits at Independence National Historical Park, the legislation would provide visitors, including students and tourists, with a richer understanding of American history. This could lead to increased engagement and appreciation for historical events and figures associated with the park, fostering a deeper connection to the nation's heritage.
2. **Cultural Preservation**: The prohibition on the removal or alteration of covered exhibits without Congressional approval ensures that significant historical narratives and displays are preserved for future generations. This could positively affect communities and historians by maintaining the integrity of the historical context and preventing the loss of crucial educational resources.
3. **Economic Impact on Tourism**: Restoring and maintaining exhibits at a prominent historical site like Independence National Historical Park could enhance its appeal, potentially increasing visitor numbers. This surge in tourism could benefit local businesses, such as hotels, restaurants, and shops, contributing to the local economy and creating jobs in the area.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.R. 7763 Introduced in House (IH)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
2d Session
H. R. 7763
To direct the Secretary of the Interior to restore interpretive and
educational exhibits at Independence National Historical Park in
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
March 3, 2026
Mr. Boyle of Pennsylvania (for himself, Mr. Evans of Pennsylvania, and
Ms. Scanlon) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the
Committee on Natural Resources
_______________________________________________________________________
A BILL
To direct the Secretary of the Interior to restore interpretive and
educational exhibits at Independence National Historical Park in
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Protecting American History Act''.
SEC. 2. RESTORATION OF INTERPRETIVE EXHIBITS AT INDEPENDENCE NATIONAL
HISTORICAL PARK.
(a) In General.--Not later than 15 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall restore any covered exhibits
at the Historical Park removed from public display after January 21,
2026, so that such covered exhibits appear as they did at the
Historical Park on that date.
(b) Prohibition on Future Removal.--The Secretary may not add,
remove, destroy, or otherwise alter covered exhibits at the Historical
Park without the express authorization of Congress.
(c) Definitions.--In this Act:
(1) Covered exhibit.--The term ``covered exhibit'' means an
interpretive or educational exhibit, sign, plaque, or other
display.
(2) Historical park.--The term ``Historical Park'' means
the Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania.
(3) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of the Interior, acting through the Director of the National
Park Service.
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