H.R. 7179: Historic Infrastructure Management and Jobs Training Act

This bill, known as the Historic Infrastructure Management and Jobs Training Act, proposes the establishment of a program designed to support workforce training focused on the preservation and conservation of historic properties and artifacts. Below are the main components of the bill:

Establishment of a Grant Program

The bill mandates the Secretary of the Interior to create a competitive grant program, referred to as the "Program." This Program will focus on:

• Workforce training and apprenticeships in historic preservation.
• Developing skilled trades related to the care and maintenance of historic sites and items of cultural significance.

Eligible Entities

The following types of entities can apply for grants under this Program:

• States, territories, local governments, Indian tribes, and Native Hawaiian organizations.
• Public or nonprofit organizations with experience in historic preservation.
• Accredited educational institutions offering relevant training programs.

Eligible Projects

Projects that qualify for funding must:

• Focus on historic properties or cultural resources that need specialized skills for preservation due to their age or significance.
• Establish or expand educational programs that teach skills necessary for preservation, including areas such as:
• Historic masonry and timber framing.
• Decorative finishes and ornamental work.
• Conservation of archival and photographic materials.
• Archaeological stabilization and conservation.
• If involving skilled trades, comply with Department of Labor standards and relevant collective bargaining agreements.

Priority Considerations

When awarding grants, the Secretary is instructed to prioritize projects that:

• Serve communities with high unemployment rates compared to the national average.
• Train workers in regions that currently lack preservation expertise, particularly in rural or underserved areas.

Administration and Reporting Requirements

The Secretary will have the authority to implement rules and procedures for the grant process. Additionally:

• Grant recipients are required to report on measurable outcomes, such as the number of individuals participating in training and the number completing preservation-related certifications.

Conforming Amendments

The bill includes provisions for making necessary changes to the existing laws to incorporate the new grant program into the U.S. Code.

Relevant Companies

None found