54 U.S.C. § 120103: National Heritage Area studies and designation

Subject to the availability of appropriations, the Secretary may carry out or review a study to assess the suitability and feasibility of each proposed National Heritage Area for designation as a National Heritage Area. by the Secretary, in consultation with State and local historic preservation officers, State and local historical societies, State and local tourism offices, and other appropriate organizations and governmental agencies; or by interested individuals or entities, if the Secretary certifies that the completed study meets the requirements of paragraph (3). Not later than 1 year after receiving a study carried out by interested individuals or entities under subparagraph (A)(ii), the Secretary shall review and certify whether the study meets the requirements of paragraph (3). represent distinctive aspects of the heritage of the United States; are worthy of recognition, conservation, interpretation, and continuing use; and through partnerships among public and private entities; and by linking diverse and sometimes noncontiguous resources and active communities; reflects traditions, customs, beliefs, and folklife that are a valuable part of the story of the United States; to conserve natural, historic, cultural, or scenic features; and for recreation and education; are important to any identified themes of the proposed National Heritage Area; and retain a degree of integrity capable of supporting interpretation; are involved in the planning of the proposed National Heritage Area; have developed a conceptual financial plan that outlines the roles of all participants in the proposed National Heritage Area, including the Federal Government; and have demonstrated significant support for the designation of the proposed National Heritage Area; has a potential management entity to work in partnership with the individuals and entities described in subparagraph (E) to develop the proposed National Heritage Area while encouraging State and local economic activity; and has a conceptual boundary map that is supported by the public. any correspondence received by the Secretary demonstrating support for, or opposition to, the establishment of the National Heritage Area; the findings of the study; and any conclusions and recommendations of the Secretary. With respect to a study carried out by the Secretary in accordance with paragraph (2)(A)(i), the Secretary shall submit a report under subparagraph (A) not later than 3 years after the date on which funds are first made available to carry out the study. With respect to a study carried out by interested individuals or entities in accordance with paragraph (2)(A)(ii), the Secretary shall submit a report under subparagraph (A) not later than 180 days after the date on which the Secretary certifies under paragraph (2)(B) that the study meets the requirements of paragraph (3). An area shall be designated as a National Heritage Area only by an Act of Congress.