Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park Legislation Passes House Of Representatives

Press Release

Today, Rep. Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) and Rep. Austin Scott (GA-08) welcomed the unanimous passage of the bipartisan H.R. 482, the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park Boundary Revision Act in the U.S. House of Representatives. Their bill would expand the boundaries of the Ocmulgee National Monument from approximately 700 acres to over 2,800 acres; change the name from "Ocmulgee National Monument" to "Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park" in order to increase name recognition and draw additional visitors; and authorize a resources study to expand the park even further and include additional opportunities for hunting, camping, fishing, and other recreational activities. The bill goes on to the Senate for consideration.

"The Ocmulgee Mounds are one of the archaeological and cultural treasures of Georgia," said Congressman Sanford Bishop. "Today's bipartisan passage of the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park Boundary Revision Act is a win for the historic preservation of the Ocmulgee Mounds and the economy of Middle Georgia!"

"Our legislation is a welcomed example of what can be achieved when a local community, state leaders, and Members of Congress, from both sides of the aisle, collaborate towards a worthy goal, and today's vote marks an important milestone in many years of effort to bring about increased recognition and enhanced cultural preservation of the Ocmulgee National Monument," said Congressman Austin Scott. "It was an honor to work with Congressman Bishop on legislation that will provide significant economic, educational, and cultural benefits to Middle Georgia."

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