Chiricahua National Park Creation Bill

Chiricahua National Park Act This bill redesignates the Chiricahua National Monument in Arizona as the Chiricahua National Park. The bill directs the National Park Service (NPS) to (1) ensure the protection of traditional cultural and religious sites in the park, and (2) provide access to those sites by members of Indian tribes for traditional cultural and customary uses. Upon the request of an Indian tribe, the NPS may temporarily close to general public use one or more specific areas of the park to protect traditional cultural and customary uses in the area by members of the tribe. The closure must be limited to the smallest practicable area for the minimum period necessary for the traditional cultural and religious activities.

1. This bill designates the Chiricahua National Monument in Arizona as Chiricahua National Park. 2. The park will have the same boundaries as the current monument. 3. Funds for the monument will also be available for the new national park. 4. The Secretary of the Interior will manage the park according to national park laws. 5. The bill ensures protection and access to cultural and religious sites for Indian Tribes.