H.R. 2967: Ralph David Abernathy, Sr. National Historic Site Act

This bill is known as the Ralph David Abernathy, Sr. National Historic Site Act, and its main purpose is to establish a new national historic site in Georgia to honor the contributions of Reverend Dr. Ralph David Abernathy, Sr., an important figure in the civil rights movement.

Key Provisions

Establishment of the Historic Site

The bill allows for the creation of the Ralph David Abernathy, Sr. National Historic Site in Georgia. This site will highlight:

• The historic West Hunter Street Baptist Church, where Dr. Abernathy served as pastor during the civil rights movement.
• The significant role Dr. Abernathy played as a civil rights leader on an international level.

Map and Boundaries

A specific map, labeled as the "Ralph David Abernathy, Sr. National Historic Site Proposed Boundary," will outline the boundaries of the historic site. This map will be made available for public inspection by the National Park Service.

Land Acquisition

The Secretary of the Interior will have the authority to acquire land and interests in land for the historic site through:

• Donations
• Purchases from willing sellers using donated or government funds
• Land exchanges

However, any land owned by the State of Georgia or its subdivisions can only be acquired through donation.

Management and Administration

The Secretary of the Interior will manage the historic site according to existing laws related to national park units. Additionally, a management plan for the site must be completed within three years after funding becomes available.

Cooperative Agreements

The Secretary is allowed to enter into cooperative agreements, leases, or other types of agreements to facilitate educational and interpretive services related to the site. These services may include:

• Directional and interpretive signage
• Exhibits
• Administrative support like parking
• Technology-based interpretive devices
• Public tours and interpretations
• Preservation efforts for historic and cultural resources

Notice of Establishment

Once land has been appropriately acquired, the Secretary is required to notify the public by publishing a notice in the Federal Register within 30 days of the establishment of the historic site.

Relevant Companies

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