Capital District Times

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik's American Battlefield Protection Program Enhancement Act is set to become law after advancing through the Senate. The legislation, which aims to improve the American Battlefield Protection Program, was passed as part of Representative Bruce Westerman’s Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act.

"As Co-Chair of the Congressional Battlefield Caucus, I am proud to have my legislation pass the Senate with bipartisan support, now one step closer to becoming law. My American Battlefield Protection Program Enhancement Act will ensure our many battlefields in Upstate New York, the North Country, and across our nation are preserved for generations to come," said Congresswoman Elise Stefanik.

David N. Duncan, President of the American Battlefield Trust, expressed support for the bill: "To preserve the historical integrity of American battlefields is paramount — we at the Trust firmly believe that preserved battlefields are outdoor classrooms that help Americans better understand the sacrifices made to forge the nation we are today. We applaud Senators Kaine and Hyde-Smith, and U.S. Representatives Stefanik and Connolly, for their tireless efforts in ensuring the work of historic preservation can continue and expand."

The act includes several provisions such as allowing non-profits and tribes to apply directly for ABPP grants without needing a state or local government sponsor. It also permits restoration grants on priority battlefields beyond those preserved using program funding and clarifies eligibility for Revolutionary War and War of 1812 sites for battlefield land acquisition grants. Additionally, it creates a process for expanding and updating battlefield boundaries.

Stefanik has been actively involved in preserving national battlefields. She introduced this bipartisan legislation in May 2023 and has since worked with various committees to advance it through Congress.

In recognition of her efforts in battlefield preservation, Congresswoman Stefanik received the National Preservation Leadership Award from the American Battlefield Trust in March 2023.