Contributed by: Preservation Action
Organization: Preservation Action
Dated Posted: October 30, 2026
Website: Visit External Site

Preservation Action and 12 other national preservation organizations have sent a letter to the U.S. Senate objecting to the historic preservation provisions of the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act of 2026 (S. 5653), the Senate’s permitting reform bill. The groups say that while they share the goal of a more efficient and predictable permitting process, the bill would weaken protections for historic places, curtail consultation with State and Tribal Historic Preservation Offices, cut the public out of Section 106 review, narrow what counts as an undertaking and an adverse effect, and undermine Tribal sovereignty, leading to more uncertainty and delay. The letter urges the Senate to keep Section 106’s scope intact, maintain meaningful consultation, respect Tribal sovereignty and match S/THPO responsibilities with funding.

The Senate has scheduled a procedural vote on the bill for November 9, 2026. Preservation Action is asking supporters to call their senators through the Capitol Switchboard (202-224-3121) and offers a phone script and resources on its website.

More information: Preservation Action