Ocmulgee Mounds National Park and Preserve Establishment Act

# Ocmulgee Mounds National Park and Preserve Establishment Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would establish the Ocmulgee Mounds area in Georgia as a new National Park and Preserve. Currently, the site operates as a National Monument. Converting it to National Park status would provide stronger protections for the land and potentially increase federal funding and resources. The bill would create formal management structures, including an advisory commission, and authorize hiring of park staff and rangers to maintain and protect the site. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill directly impacts visitors, local communities, and Native American tribes with historical connections to the Ocmulgee Mounds site.

The area contains ancient Native American ceremonial mounds with significant archaeological and cultural importance. Key provisions include establishing hiring and employment policies for park staff, setting guidelines for hunting and fishing on the property, and creating mechanisms for tribal consultation and Native American cultural programs. The bill also addresses land transfers and compensation related to the site's management. **Current Status** The bill (S 1131) was introduced by Senator Jon Ossoff (D-Georgia) and is currently under committee review in the Senate. It has not yet been voted on or advanced to the full Senate floor.