[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 76 (Thursday, June 16, 1994)]
[Senate]
[Page S]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         LAND MANAGEMENT AGENCY HOUSING IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1994

  The Senate proceeded to consider the bill (S. 472) to improve the 
administration and management of public lands, national forests, units 
of the National Park System, and related areas by improving the 
availability of adequate, appropriate, affordable, and cost effective 
housing for employees needed to effectively manage the public lands, 
which had been reported from the Committee on Energy and Natural 
Resources, with amendments; as follows:
  (The parts of the bill intended to be stricken are shown in boldface 
brackets and the parts of the bill intended to be inserted are shown in 
italic.)

                                 S. 472

       Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of 
     the United States of America in Congress assembled,

     SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

       This Act may be referred to as the ``Land Management Agency 
     Housing Improvement Act [of 1993] of 1994''.

     SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.

       As used in this Act, the term--
       (1) ``public lands'' means Federal lands administered by 
     the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of 
     Agriculture; and
       (2) ``Secretaries'' means the Secretary of the Interior and 
     the Secretary of Agriculture.

     SEC. 3. EMPLOYEE HOUSING.

       (a)(1) To promote the recruitment and retention of 
     qualified personnel necessary for the effective management of 
     public lands, the Secretaries are authorized to--
       (A) make employee housing available, subject to the 
     limitations set forth in paragraph (2), on or off public 
     lands, and
       (B) rent or lease such housing to employees of the 
     respective Department at a reasonable value.
       (2)(A) Housing made available on public lands shall be 
     limited to those areas designated for administrative use.
       (B) No private lands or interests therein outside of the 
     boundaries of federally administered areas may be acquired 
     for the purposes of this Act except with the consent of the 
     owner thereof.
       (b) The Secretaries shall provide such housing in 
     accordance with this Act and section 5911 of title 5, United 
     States Code, except that for the purposes of this Act, the 
     term--
       (1) ``availability of quarters'' (as used in this Act and 
     subsection (b) of section 5911) means the existence, within 
     thirty miles of the employee's duty station, of well-
     constructed and maintained housing suitable to the individual 
     and family needs of the employee, for which the rental rate 
     as a percentage of the employee's annual gross income does 
     not exceed the most recent Census Bureau American Housing 
     [Survey average percentage of rents paid by renters] Survey 
     median monthly housing cost for renters inclusive of 
     [utilities, whether] utilities, as a percentage of current 
     income, whether paid as part of rent or paid directly to a 
     third party;
       (2) ``contract'' (as used in this Act and subsection (b) of 
     section 5911) includes, but is not limited to, ``Build-to-
     Lease'', ``Rental Guarantee'', ``Joint Development'' or other 
     lease agreements entered into by the Secretary, on or off 
     public lands, for the purposes of sub-leasing to Departmental 
     employees; and
       (3) ``reasonable value'' (as used in this Act and 
     subsection (c) of section 5911) means the base rental rate 
     comparable to private rental rates for comparable housing 
     facilities and associated amenities: Provided, That the base 
     rental rate as a percentage of the employee's annual gross 
     income shall not exceed the most recent American Housing 
     [Survey average percentage of rents paid by renters] Survey 
     median monthly housing cost for renters inclusive of 
     [utilities, whether] utilities, as a percentage of current 
     income, whether paid as part of rent or paid directly to a 
     third party.
       (c) Subject to appropriation, the Secretaries may enter 
     into contracts and agreements with public and private 
     entities to provide employee housing on or off public lands.
       (d) The Secretaries may enter into cooperative agreements 
     or joint ventures with local governmental and private 
     entities, either on or off public lands, to provide 
     appropriate and necessary utility and other infrastructure 
     facilities in support of employee housing facilities provided 
     under this Act.

     SEC. 4. SURVEY OF RENTAL QUARTERS.

       The Secretaries shall conduct a survey of the availability 
     of quarters at field units under each Secretary's 
     jurisdiction at least every five years. If such survey 
     indicates that government owned or suitable privately owned 
     quarters are not available as defined in section 3(b)(1) of 
     this [Act of the] Act for the personnel assigned to a 
     specific duty station, the Secretaries are authorized to 
     provide suitable quarters in accordance with the provisions 
     of this Act. For the purposes of this section; the term 
     ``suitable quarters'' means well-constructed, maintained 
     housing suitable to the individual and family needs of the 
     employee.

     SEC. 5. SECONDARY QUARTERS.

       (a) The Secretaries may determine that secondary quarters 
     for employees who are permanently duty stationed at remote 
     locations and are regularly required to relocated for 
     temporary periods are necessary for the effective 
     administration of an area under the jurisdiction of the 
     respective agency. Such secondary quarters are authorized to 
     be made available to employees, either on or off public 
     lands, in accordance with the provisions of this Act.
       (b) Rental rates for such secondary facilities shall be 
     established so that the aggregate rental rate paid by an 
     employee for both primary and secondary quarters as a 
     percentage of the employee's annual gross income shall not 
     exceed the Census Bureau American Housing Survey [average 
     percentage of rents paid by renters inclusive of utilities; 
     whether paid as part of rent or paid directly to a third 
     party.] median monthly housing cost for renters inclusive of 
     utilities as a percentage of current income, whether paid as 
     part of rent or paid directly to a third party.

     SEC. 6. SURVEY OF EXISTING FACILITIES.

       (a) Within two years after the date of enactment of this 
     Act, the Secretaries shall survey all existing government 
     owned employee housing facilities under the jurisdiction of 
     the Department of the Interior and the Department of 
     Agriculture, to assess the physical condition of such housing 
     and the suitability of such housing for the effective 
     prosecution of the agency mission. The Secretaries shall 
     develop an agency-wide priority listing, by structure, 
     identifying those units in greatest [need for repair,] need 
     of repair, rehabilitation, replacement or initial 
     construction, as appropriate. The survey and priority listing 
     study shall be transmitted to the Committees on 
     Appropriations and Energy and Natural Resources of the United 
     States Senate and the Committees on Appropriations [and 
     Interior and Insular Affairs of] and Natural Resources of the 
     United States House of Representatives.
       (b) Unless otherwise provided by law, expenditure of any 
     funds appropriated for construction, repair or rehabilitation 
     shall follow, in sequential order, the priority listing 
     established by each agency. Funding available from other 
     sources for employee housing repair may be distributed as 
     determined by the Secretaries.

     SEC. 7. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

       There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be 
     necessary to carry out this Act.

  So the bill (S. 472) was deemed read the third time and passed.

 CANE RIVER CREOLE NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK AND NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA 
                                  ACT

  The Senate proceeded to consider the bill (S. 1980) to establish the 
Cane River Creole National Historical Park and the Cane River National 
Heritage Area in the State of Louisiana, and for other purposes, which 
had been reported from the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, 
with amendments; as follows:
  (The parts of the bill intended to be stricken are shown in boldface 
brackets and the parts of the bill intended to be inserted are shown in 
italic.)

                                S. 1980

       Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of 
     the United States of America in Congress assembled,

     SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

       This Act may be cited as the ``Cane River Creole National 
     Historical Park and National Heritage Area Act''.

     SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSE.

       (a) Findings.--The Congress finds that--
       (1) the Natchitoches area along Cane River, established in 
     1714, is the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana 
     Purchase territory;
       (2) the Cane River area is the locale of the development of 
     Creole culture, from French-Spanish interactions of the early 
     18th century to today's living communities;
       (3) the Cane River, historically a segment of the Red 
     River, provided the focal point for early settlement, serving 
     as a transportation route upon which commerce and 
     communication reached all parts of the colony;
       (4) although a number of Creole structures, sites, and 
     landscapes exist in Louisiana and elsewhere, unlike the Cane 
     River area, most are isolated examples, and lack original 
     outbuilding complexes or integrity;
       (5) the Cane River area includes a great variety of 
     historical features with original elements in both rural and 
     urban settings and a cultural landscape that represents 
     various aspects of Creole culture, providing the base for a 
     holistic approach to understanding the broad continuum of 
     history within the region;
       (6) the Cane River region includes the Natchitoches 
     National Historic Landmark District, composed of 
     approximately 300 publicly and privately owned properties, 
     four other national historic landmarks, and other structures 
     and sites that may meet criteria for landmark significance 
     following further study;
       (7) historic preservation within the Cane River area has 
     greatly benefitted from individuals and organizations that 
     have strived to protect their heritage and educate others 
     about their rich history; and
       (8) because of the complexity and magnitude of preservation 
     needs in the Cane River area, and the vital need for a 
     culturally sensitive approach, a partnership approach is 
     desirable for addressing the many preservation and 
     educational needs.
       (b) Purpose.--The purposes of this Act are to--
       (1) recognize the importance of the Cane River Creole 
     culture as a nationally significant element of the cultural 
     heritage of the United States;
       (2) establish a Cane River Creole National Historical Park 
     to serve as the focus of interpretive and educational 
     programs on the history of the Cane River area and to assist 
     in the preservation of certain historic sites along the 
     river; and
       (3) establish a Cane River National Heritage Area and 
     Commission to be undertaken in partnership with the State of 
     Louisiana, the City of Natchitoches, local communities and 
     settlements of the Cane River area, preservation 
     organizations, and private landowners, with full recognition 
     that programs must fully involve the local communities and 
     landowners.

              TITLE I--CANE RIVER NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK

     SEC. 101. ESTABLISHMENT.

       (a) In General.--In order to assist in the preservation and 
     interpretation of, and education concerning, the Creole 
     culture and diverse history of the Natchitoches region, and 
     to provide technical assistance to a broad range of public 
     and private landowners and preservation organizations, there 
     is hereby established the Cane River Creole National 
     Historical Park (hereinafter in this Act referred to as the 
     ``historical park'').
       (b) Area Included.--The historical park shall consist of 
     lands and interests therein as follows:
       (1) Lands and structures associated with the Oakland 
     Plantation as depicted on map CARI, 80,002, dated January 
     1994.
       (2) Lands and structures owned or acquired by Museum 
     Contents, Inc. as depicted on map CARI, [80,001, dated 
     January 1994.] 80,001A, dated May 1994.
       (3) Sites that may be the subject of cooperative agreements 
     with the National Park Service for the purposes of historic 
     preservation and interpretation including, but not limited 
     to, the Melrose Plantation, the Badin-Roque site, the 
     Cherokee Plantation, the Beau Fort Plantation, and sites 
     within the Natchitoches National Historical Landmark 
     District: Provided, That such sites may not be added to the 
     historical park unless the Secretary of the Interior 
     (hereinafter referred to as the ``Secretary'') determines, 
     based on further research and planning, that such sites meet 
     the applicable criteria for national historical significance, 
     suitability, and feasibility, and notification of the 
     proposed addition has been transmitted to the Committee on 
     Energy and Natural Resources of the United States Senate and 
     the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives.
       (4) Not to exceed 10 acres of land that the Secretary may 
     designate for an interpretive visitor center complex to serve 
     the needs of the historical park and heritage area 
     established in title II of this Act.

     SEC. 102. ADMINISTRATION.

       (a) In General.--The Secretary shall administer the 
     historical park in accordance with this Act, and with 
     provisions of law generally applicable to units of the 
     National Park System, including the Act entitled ``An Act to 
     establish a National Park Service, and for other purposes'', 
     approved August 25, 1916 (39 Stat. 535; 16 U.S.C. 1, 2-4); 
     and the Act of August 21, 1935 (49 Stat. 666, 16 U.S.C. 461-
     467). The Secretary shall manage the historical park in such 
     a manner as will preserve resources and cultural landscapes 
     relating to the Creole culture of the Cane River and enhance 
     public understanding of the important cultural heritage of 
     the Cane River region.
       (b) Donations.--The Secretary may accept and retain 
     donations of funds, property, or services [for] from 
     individuals, foundations, or other public or private entities 
     for the purposes of providing programs, services, facilities, 
     or technical assistance that further the purposes of this 
     Act. Any funds donated to the Secretary pursuant to this 
     subsection may be expended without further appropriation.
       (c) Interpretive Center.--The Secretary is authorized to 
     construct, operate, and maintain an interpretive center on 
     lands identified by the Secretary pursuant to section 
     101(b)(4) of this title. Such center shall provide for the 
     general information and orientation needs of the historical 
     park and the heritage area. The Secretary shall consult with 
     the State of Louisiana, the City of Natchitoches, the 
     Association for the Preservation of Historic Natchitoches, 
     and the Cane River National Heritage Area Commission pursuant 
     to section 202 of this Act in the planning and development of 
     the interpretive center.
       (d) Cooperative Agreements and Technical Assistance.--(1) 
     The Secretary, after consultation with the Cane River 
     National Heritage Area Commission established pursuant to 
     section 202 of this Act, is authorized to enter into 
     cooperative agreements with owners of properties within the 
     heritage area and owners of properties within the historical 
     park that provide important educational and interpretive 
     opportunities relating to the heritage of the Cane River 
     region. The Secretary may also enter into cooperative 
     agreements for the purpose of facilitating the preservation 
     of important historic sites and structures identified in the 
     historical park's general management plan or other heritage 
     elements related to the heritage of the Cane River region. 
     Such cooperative agreements shall specify that the National 
     Park Service shall have reasonable rights of access for 
     operational and visitor use needs and that preservation 
     treatments will meet the Secretary's standards for 
     rehabilitation of historic buildings.
       (2) The Secretary is authorized to enter into cooperative 
     agreements with the City of Natchitoches, the State of 
     Louisiana, and other public or private organizations for the 
     development of the interpretive center, educational programs, 
     and other materials that will facilitate public use of the 
     historical park and heritage area.
       (e) Research.--The Secretary, acting through the National 
     Park Service, shall coordinate a comprehensive research 
     program on the complex history of the Cane River region, 
     including ethnography studies of the living communities along 
     the Cane River, and how past and present generations have 
     adapted to their environment, including genealogical studies 
     of families within the Cane River area. Research shall 
     include, but not be limited to, the extensive primary 
     historic documents within the Natchitoches and Cane River 
     areas, and curation methods for their care and exhibition. 
     The research program shall be coordinated with Northwestern 
     State University of Louisiana, and the National Center for 
     Preservation Technology and Training in Natchitoches.

     SEC. 103. ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY.

       (a) General Authority.--Except as otherwise provided in 
     this section, the Secretary is authorized to acquire lands 
     and interests therein within the boundaries of the historical 
     park by donation, purchase with donated or appropriated 
     funds, or exchange.
       (b) State and Local Properties.--Lands and interests 
     therein that are owned by the State of Louisiana, or any 
     political subdivision thereof, may be acquired only by 
     donation or exchange.
       (c) Museum Contents, Inc.--Lands and structures identified 
     in section 101(b)(2) may be acquired only by donation.
       (d) Cooperative Agreement Sites.--Lands and interests 
     therein that are the subject of cooperative agreements 
     pursuant to section 101(b)(3) shall not be acquired except 
     with the consent of the owner thereof.

     SEC. 104. GENERAL MANAGEMENT PLAN.

       Within 3 years after the date funds are made available 
     therefor and in consultation with the Cane River Heritage 
     Area Commission, the National Park Service shall prepare a 
     general management plan for the historical park. The plan 
     shall include, but need not be limited to--
       (1) a visitor use plan indicating programs and facilities 
     that will be provided for public use, including the location 
     and cost of an interpretive center;
       (2) programs and management actions that the National Park 
     Service will undertake cooperatively with the heritage area 
     commission, including preservation treatments for important 
     sites, structures, objects, and research materials. Planning 
     shall address educational media, roadway signing, and 
     brochures that could be [prepared jointly] coordinated with 
     the Commission pursuant to section 203 of this Act; and
       (3) preservation and use plans for any sites and structures 
     that are identified for National Park Service involvement 
     through cooperative agreements.

              TITLE II--CANE RIVER NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA

     SEC. 201. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE CANE RIVER NATIONAL HERITAGE 
                   AREA.

       (a) Establishment.--There is hereby established the Cane 
     River National Heritage Area (hereinafter referred to as the 
     ``heritage area'').
       (b) Purpose.--In furtherance of the need to recognize the 
     value and importance of the Cane River region and in 
     recognition of the findings of section 2(a) of this Act, it 
     is the purpose of this title to establish a heritage area to 
     complement the historical park and to provide for a 
     culturally sensitive approach to the preservation of the 
     heritage of the Cane River region, and for other needs 
     including--
       (1) recognizing areas important to the Nation's heritage 
     and identity;
       (2) assisting in the preservation and enhancement of the 
     cultural landscape and traditions of the Cane River region;
       (3) providing a framework for those who live within this 
     important dynamic cultural landscape to assist in 
     preservation and educational actions; and
       (4) minimizing the need for Federal land acquisition and 
     management.
       (c) Area Included.--The heritage area shall include--
       (1) an area approximately 1 mile on both sides of the Cane 
     River as depicted on map CARI, [80,000, dated January 1994;] 
     80,000A, dated May 1994;
       [(2) the Natchitoches National Historical Landmark 
     District;]
       (2) those properties within the Natchitoches National 
     Historic Landmark District which are the subject of 
     cooperative agreements pursuant to section 102(d);
       (3) the Los Adaes State Commemorative Area;
       (4) the Fort Jesup State Commemorative Area;
       (5) the Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Commemorative Area; 
     and
       (6) the Kate Chopin House.

     A final identification of all areas and sites to be included 
     in the heritage area shall be included in the heritage area 
     management plan as required in section 203 of this title.

     SEC. 202. CANE RIVER NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA COMMISSION.

       (a) Establishment.--To assist in implementing the purposes 
     of this Act and to provide guidance for the management of the 
     heritage area, there is established the Cane River National 
     Heritage Area Commission (hereinafter referred to as the 
     ``Commission'').
       (b) Membership.--The Commission shall consist of [16] 19 
     members to be appointed no later than 6 months after the date 
     of enactment of this Act. The Commission shall be appointed 
     by the Secretary as follows--
       (1) one member from recommendations submitted by the mayor 
     of Natchitoches;
       (2) one member from recommendations submitted by the 
     Association for the Preservation of Historic Natchitoches;
       (3) one member from recommendations submitted by the 
     Natchitoches Historic Foundation, Inc.;
       [(4) one member with experience in and knowledge of tourism 
     in the greater Cane River region, from recommendations 
     submitted by local businesses;]
       (4) two members with experience in and knowledge of tourism 
     in the heritage area from recommendations submitted by local 
     business and tourism organizations;
       (5) one member from recommendations submitted by the 
     Governor of the State of Louisiana;
       (6) one member from recommendations submitted by the Police 
     Jury of Natchitoches Parish;
       (7) one member from recommendations submitted by the 
     Concerned Citizens of Cloutierville;
       (8) one member from recommendations submitted by the St. 
     Augustine Historical Society;
       (9) one member from recommendations submitted by the Black 
     Heritage Committee;
       (10) one member from recommendations submitted by the Los 
     Adaes/Robeline Community;
       (11) one member from recommendations submitted by the 
     Natchitoches Historic District Commission;
       (12) one member from recommendations submitted by the Cane 
     River Waterway Commission;
       [(13) one member who is a landowner along the Cane River;]
       (13) two members who are landowners in and residents of the 
     heritage area;
       (14) one member with experience and knowledge of historic 
     preservation from recommendations submitted by Museum 
     Contents, Inc.;
       (15) one member with experience and knowledge of historic 
     preservation from recommendations submitted by the President 
     of Northwestern State University of Louisiana; and
       (16) one member with experience in and knowledge of 
     environmental, recreational and conservation matters 
     affecting the heritage area from recommendations submitted by 
     the Natchitoches Sportsmans Association and other local 
     recreational and environmental organizations; and
       [(16)] (17) the director of the National Park Service, or 
     the Director's designee, ex officio.
       (c) Duties of the Commission.--The Commission shall--
       (1) prepare a management plan for the heritage area in 
     consultation with the National Park Service, the State of 
     Louisiana, the City of Natchitoches, Natchitoches Parish, 
     interested groups, property owners, and the public;
       (2) consult with the Secretary on the preparation of the 
     general management plan for the historical park;
       (3) develop [partnerships] cooperative agreements with 
     property owners, preservation groups, educational groups, the 
     State of Louisiana, the City of Natchitoches, universities, 
     and tourism groups, and other groups to [furtherance] further 
     of the purposes of this Act; and
       (4) identify appropriate entities, such as a non-profit 
     corporation, that could be established to assume the 
     responsibilities of the Commission following its termination.
       (d) Powers of the Commission.--In furtherance of the 
     purposes of this Act, the Commission is authorized to--
       (1) procure temporary and intermittent services to the same 
     extent that is authorized by section 3109(b) of title 5, 
     United States Code, but at rates determined by the Commission 
     to be reasonable;
       (2) accept the services of personnel detailed from the 
     State of Louisiana or any political subdivision thereof, and 
     may reimburse the State or political subdivision for such 
     services;
       (3) upon the request of the Commission, the head of any 
     Federal agency may detail, on a reimbursable basis, any of 
     the personnel of such agency to the Commission to assist the 
     Commission in carrying out its duties;
       (4) appoint and fix the compensation of such staff as may 
     be necessary to carry out its duties. Staff shall be 
     appointed subject to the provisions of title 5, United States 
     Code, governing appointments in the competitive service, and 
     shall be paid in accordance with the provisions of chapter 51 
     and subchapter III of chapter 53 of such title relating to 
     classification and General Schedule pay rates;
       (5) enter into cooperative agreements [and leases] with 
     public or private individuals or entities for research, 
     historic preservation, and education purposes;
       (6) make grants to assist in the preparation of studies 
     that identify, preserve, and plan for the management of the 
     heritage area;
       (7) notwithstanding any other provision of law, seek and 
     accept donations of funds or services from individuals, 
     foundations, or other public or private entities and expend 
     the same for the purposes of providing services and programs 
     in furtherance of the purposes of this Act;
       (8) assist others in developing educational, informational, 
     and interpretive programs and facilities;
       (9) hold such hearings, sit and act at such times and 
     places, take such testimony, and receive such evidence, as 
     the Commission may consider appropriate; and
       (10) use the United States mails in the same manner and 
     under the same conditions as other departments or agencies of 
     the United States.
       (e) Compensation.--Members of the Commission shall receive 
     no compensation for their service on the Commission. While 
     away from their homes or regular places of business in the 
     performance of services for the Commission, members shall be 
     allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of 
     subsistence, in the same manner as persons employed 
     intermittently in the Government service are allowed expenses 
     under section 5703 of title 5, United States Code.
       (f) Chairman.--The Commission shall elect a chairman from 
     among its members. The term of the chairman shall be for 3 
     years.
       (g) Terms.--The terms of Commission members shall be for 3 
     years. Any member of the Commission appointed by the 
     Secretary for a 3-year term may serve after expiration of his 
     or her term until a successor is appointed. Any vacancy shall 
     be filled in the same manner in which the original 
     appointment was made. Any member appointed to fill a vacancy 
     shall serve for the remainder of the term for which the 
     predecessor was appointed.
       (h) Annual Reports.--The Commission shall submit an annual 
     report to the Secretary identifying its expenses and any 
     income, the entities to which any grants or technical 
     assistance were made during the year for which the report is 
     made, and actions that are planned for the following year.

     SEC. 203. [DUTIES OF THE HERITAGE AREA COMMISSION] 
                   PREPARATION OF THE PLAN.

       (a) [Preparation of Plan.--]In General.--Within 3 years 
     after the Commission conducts its first meeting, it shall 
     prepare and submit a heritage area management plan to the 
     Governor of the State of Louisiana. The Governor shall, if 
     the Governor approves the plan, submit it to the Secretary 
     for review and approval. The Secretary shall provide 
     technical assistance to the Commission in the preparation and 
     implementation of the plan, in concert with actions by the 
     National Park Service to prepare a general management plan 
     for the historical park. The plan shall consider local 
     government plans and shall present a unified heritage 
     preservation and education plan for the heritage area. The 
     plan shall include, but not be limited to--
       (1) an inventory of important properties and cultural 
     landscapes that should be preserved, managed, developed, and 
     maintained because of their cultural, natural, and public use 
     significance;
       (2) an analysis of current land uses within the area and 
     how they affect the goals of preservation and public use of 
     the heritage area;
       (3) an interpretive plan to address the cultural and 
     natural history of the area, and actions to enhance visitor 
     use. This element of the plan shall be undertaken in 
     consultation with the National Park Service and visitor use 
     plans for the national historical park;
       (4) recommendations for coordinating actions by local, 
     State, and Federal governments within the heritage area, to 
     further the purposes of this Act; and
       (5) an implementation program for the plan including 
     desired actions by State and local governments and other 
     involved groups and entities.
       (b) Approval of the Plan.--The Secretary shall approve or 
     disapprove the plan within 90 days after receipt of the plan 
     from the Commission. The Commission shall notify the 
     Secretary of the status of approval by the Governor of 
     Louisiana when the plan is submitted for review and approval. 
     In determining whether or not to approve the plan the 
     Secretary shall consider--
       (1) whether the Commission has afforded adequate 
     opportunity, including public meetings and hearings, for 
     public and governmental involvement in the preparation of the 
     plan; and
       (2) whether reasonable assurances have been received from 
     the State and local governments that the plan is supported 
     and that the implementation program is feasible.
       (c) Disapproval of the Plan.--If the Secretary disapproves 
     the plan, he shall advise the Commission in writing of the 
     reasons for disapproval, and shall provide recommendations 
     and assistance in the revision of the plan. Following 
     completion of any revisions to the plan, the Commission shall 
     resubmit the plan to the Governor of Louisiana for approval, 
     and to the Secretary, who shall approve or disapprove the 
     plan within 90 days after the date that the plan is revised.

     SEC. 204. TERMINATION OF HERITAGE AREA COMMISSION.

       (a) Termination.--The Commission shall terminate on the day 
     occurring 10 years after the first official meeting of the 
     Commission.
       (b) Extension.--The Commission may petition to be extended 
     for a period of not more than 5 years beginning on the day 
     referred to in subsection (a), provided the Commission 
     determines a critical need to fulfill the purposes of this 
     Act; and the Commission obtains approval from the Secretary, 
     in consultation with the Governor of Louisiana.
       (c) Heritage Area Management Following Termination of the 
     Commission.--The national heritage area status for the Cane 
     River region shall continue following the termination of the 
     Commission. The management plan, and partnerships and 
     agreements subject to the plan shall guide the future 
     management of the heritage area. The Commission, prior to its 
     termination, shall recommend to the Governor of the State of 
     Louisiana and the Secretary, appropriate entities, including 
     the potential for a nonprofit corporation, to assume the 
     responsibilities of the Commission.

     SEC. 205. DUTIES OF OTHER FEDERAL AGENCIES.

       [In general, any Federal entity conducting or supporting 
     activities directly affecting the heritage area, and any 
     entity of the State of Louisiana, or a political subdivision 
     thereof, acting pursuant to a grant of Federal funds or a 
     Federal permit or agreement directly affecting the heritage 
     area shall--]
       Any Federal entity conducting or supporting activities 
     directly affecting the heritage area shall--
       (1) consult with the Secretary and the Commission with 
     respect to implementation of their proposed actions; and
       (2) to the maximum extent practicable, coordinate such 
     activities with the Commission to minimize potential impacts 
     on the resources of the heritage area.

     SEC. 206. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

       [Except as provided in subsection (b) there] There are 
     authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary 
     to carry out this Act.
  So the bill (S. 1980) was deemed read the third time and passed, as 
follows:

                                S. 1980

       Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of 
     the United States of America in Congress assembled,

     SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

       This Act may be cited as the ``Cane River Creole National 
     Historical Park and National Heritage Area Act''.

     SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSE.

       (a) Findings.--The Congress finds that--
       (1) the Natchitoches area along Cane River, established in 
     1714, is the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana 
     Purchase territory;
       (2) the Cane River area is the locale of the development of 
     Creole culture, from French-Spanish interactions of the early 
     18th century to today's living communities;
       (3) the Cane River, historically a segment of the Red 
     River, provided the focal point for early settlement, serving 
     as a transportation route upon which commerce and 
     communication reached all parts of the colony;
       (4) although a number of Creole structures, sites, and 
     landscapes exist in Louisiana and elsewhere, unlike the Cane 
     River area, most are isolated examples, and lack original 
     outbuilding complexes or integrity;
       (5) the Cane River area includes a great variety of 
     historical features with original elements in both rural and 
     urban settings and a cultural landscape that represents 
     various aspects of Creole culture, providing the base for a 
     holistic approach to understanding the broad continuum of 
     history within the region;
       (6) the Cane River region includes the Natchitoches 
     National Historic Landmark District, composed of 
     approximately 300 publicly and privately owned properties, 
     four other national historic landmarks, and other structures 
     and sites that may meet criteria for landmark significance 
     following further study;
       (7) historic preservation within the Cane River area has 
     greatly benefitted from individuals and organizations that 
     have strived to protect their heritage and educate others 
     about their rich history; and
       (8) because of the complexity and magnitude of preservation 
     needs in the Cane River area, and the vital need for a 
     culturally sensitive approach, a partnership approach is 
     desirable for addressing the many preservation and 
     educational needs.
       (b) Purpose.--The purposes of this Act are to--
       (1) recognize the importance of the Cane River Creole 
     culture as a nationally significant element of the cultural 
     heritage of the United States;
       (2) establish a Cane River Creole National Historical Park 
     to serve as the focus of interpretive and educational 
     programs on the history of the Cane River area and to assist 
     in the preservation of certain historic sites along the 
     river; and
       (3) establish a Cane River National Heritage Area and 
     Commission to be undertaken in partnership with the State of 
     Louisiana, the City of Natchitoches, local communities and 
     settlements of the Cane River area, preservation 
     organizations, and private landowners, with full recognition 
     that programs must fully involve the local communities and 
     landowners.

              TITLE I--CANE RIVER NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK

     SEC. 101. ESTABLISHMENT.

       (a) In General.--In order to assist in the preservation and 
     interpretation of, and education concerning, the Creole 
     culture and diverse history of the Natchitoches region, and 
     to provide technical assistance to a broad range of public 
     and private landowners and preservation organizations, there 
     is hereby established the Cane River Creole National 
     Historical Park (hereinafter in this Act referred to as the 
     ``historical park'').
       (b) Area Included.--The historical park shall consist of 
     lands and interests therein as follows:
       (1) Lands and structures associated with the Oakland 
     Plantation as depicted on map CARI, 80,002, dated January 
     1994.
       (2) Lands and structures owned or acquired by Museum 
     Contents, Inc. as depicted on map CARI, 80,001A, dated May 
     1994.
       (3) Sites that may be the subject of cooperative agreements 
     with the National Park Service for the purposes of historic 
     preservation and interpretation including, but not limited 
     to, the Melrose Plantation, the Badin-Roque site, the 
     Cherokee Plantation, the Beau Fort Plantation, and sites 
     within the Natchitoches National Historical Landmark 
     District: Provided, That such sites may not be added to the 
     historical park unless the Secretary of the Interior 
     (hereinafter referred to as the ``Secretary'') determines, 
     based on further research and planning, that such sites meet 
     the applicable criteria for national historical significance, 
     suitability, and feasibility, and notification of the 
     proposed addition has been transmitted to the Committee on 
     Energy and Natural Resources of the United States Senate and 
     the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives.
       (4) Not to exceed 10 acres of land that the Secretary may 
     designate for an interpretive visitor center complex to serve 
     the needs of the historical park and heritage area 
     established in title II of this Act.

     SEC. 102. ADMINISTRATION.

       (a) In General.--The Secretary shall administer the 
     historical park in accordance with this Act, and with 
     provisions of law generally applicable to units of the 
     National Park System, including the Act entitled ``An Act to 
     establish a National Park Service, and for other purposes'', 
     approved August 25, 1916 (39 Stat. 535; 16 U.S.C. 1, 2-4); 
     and the Act of August 21, 1935 (49 Stat. 666, 16 U.S.C. 461-
     467). The Secretary shall manage the historical park in such 
     a manner as will preserve resources and cultural landscapes 
     relating to the Creole culture of the Cane River and enhance 
     public understanding of the important cultural heritage of 
     the Cane River region.
       (b) Donations.--The Secretary may accept and retain 
     donations of funds, property, or services from individuals, 
     foundations, or other public or private entities for the 
     purposes of providing programs, services, facilities, or 
     technical assistance that further the purposes of this Act. 
     Any funds donated to the Secretary pursuant to this 
     subsection may be expended without further appropriation.
       (c) Interpretive Center.--The Secretary is authorized to 
     construct, operate, and maintain an interpretive center on 
     lands identified by the Secretary pursuant to section 
     101(b)(4) of this title. Such center shall provide for the 
     general information and orientation needs of the historical 
     park and the heritage area. The Secretary shall consult with 
     the State of Louisiana, the City of Natchitoches, the 
     Association for the Preservation of Historic Natchitoches, 
     and the Cane River National Heritage Area Commission pursuant 
     to section 202 of this Act in the planning and development of 
     the interpretive center.
       (d) Cooperative Agreements and Technical Assistance.--(1) 
     The Secretary, after consultation with the Cane River 
     National Heritage Area Commission established pursuant to 
     section 202 of this Act, is authorized to enter into 
     cooperative agreements with owners of properties within the 
     heritage area and owners of properties within the historical 
     park that provide important educational and interpretive 
     opportunities relating to the heritage of the Cane River 
     region. The Secretary may also enter into cooperative 
     agreements for the purpose of facilitating the preservation 
     of important historic sites and structures identified in the 
     historical park's general management plan or other heritage 
     elements related to the heritage of the Cane River region. 
     Such cooperative agreements shall specify that the National 
     Park Service shall have reasonable rights of access for 
     operational and visitor use needs and that preservation 
     treatments will meet the Secretary's standards for 
     rehabilitation of historic buildings.
       (2) The Secretary is authorized to enter into cooperative 
     agreements with the City of Natchitoches, the State of 
     Louisiana, and other public or private organizations for the 
     development of the interpretive center, educational programs, 
     and other materials that will facilitate public use of the 
     historical park and heritage area.
       (e) Research.--The Secretary, acting through the National 
     Park Service, shall coordinate a comprehensive research 
     program on the complex history of the Cane River region, 
     including ethnography studies of the living communities along 
     the Cane River, and how past and present generations have 
     adapted to their environment, including genealogical studies 
     of families within the Cane River area. Research shall 
     include, but not be limited to, the extensive primary 
     historic documents within the Natchitoches and Cane River 
     areas, and curation methods for their care and exhibition. 
     The research program shall be coordinated with Northwestern 
     State University of Louisiana, and the National Center for 
     Preservation Technology and Training in Natchitoches.

     SEC. 103. ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY.

       (a) General Authority.--Except as otherwise provided in 
     this section, the Secretary is authorized to acquire lands 
     and interests therein within the boundaries of the historical 
     park by donation, purchase with donated or appropriated 
     funds, or exchange.
       (b) State and Local Properties.--Lands and interests 
     therein that are owned by the State of Louisiana, or any 
     political subdivision thereof, may be acquired only by 
     donation or exchange.
       (c) Museum Contents, Inc.--Lands and structures identified 
     in section 101(b)(2) may be acquired only by donation.
       (d) Cooperative Agreement Sites.--Lands and interests 
     therein that are the subject of cooperative agreements 
     pursuant to section 101(b)(3) shall not be acquired except 
     with the consent of the owner thereof.

     SEC. 104. GENERAL MANAGEMENT PLAN.

       Within 3 years after the date funds are made available 
     therefor and in consultation with the Cane River Heritage 
     Area Commission, the National Park Service shall prepare a 
     general management plan for the historical park. The plan 
     shall include, but need not be limited to--
       (1) a visitor use plan indicating programs and facilities 
     that will be provided for public use, including the location 
     and cost of an interpretive center;
       (2) programs and management actions that the National Park 
     Service will undertake cooperatively with the heritage area 
     commission, including preservation treatments for important 
     sites, structures, objects, and research materials. Planning 
     shall address educational media, roadway signing, and 
     brochures that could be coordinated with the Commission 
     pursuant to section 203 of this Act; and
       (3) preservation and use plans for any sites and structures 
     that are identified for National Park Service involvement 
     through cooperative agreements.

              TITLE II--CANE RIVER NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA

     SEC. 201. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE CANE RIVER NATIONAL HERITAGE 
                   AREA.

       (a) Establishment.--There is hereby established the Cane 
     River National Heritage Area (hereinafter referred to as the 
     ``heritage area'').
       (b) Purpose.--In furtherance of the need to recognize the 
     value and importance of the Cane River region and in 
     recognition of the findings of section 2(a) of this Act, it 
     is the purpose of this title to establish a heritage area to 
     complement the historical park and to provide for a 
     culturally sensitive approach to the preservation of the 
     heritage of the Cane River region, and for other needs 
     including--
       (1) recognizing areas important to the Nation's heritage 
     and identity;
       (2) assisting in the preservation and enhancement of the 
     cultural landscape and traditions of the Cane River region;
       (3) providing a framework for those who live within this 
     important dynamic cultural landscape to assist in 
     preservation and educational actions; and
       (4) minimizing the need for Federal land acquisition and 
     management.
       (c) Area Included.--The heritage area shall include--
       (1) an area approximately 1 mile on both sides of the Cane 
     River as depicted on map CARI, 80,000A, dated May 1994;
       (2) those properties within the Natchitoches National 
     Historic Landmark District which are the subject of 
     cooperative agreements pursuant to section 102(d);
       (3) the Los Adaes State Commemorative Area;
       (4) the Fort Jesup State Commemorative Area;
       (5) the Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Commemorative Area; 
     and
       (6) the Kate Chopin House.
     A final identification of all areas and sites to be included 
     in the heritage area shall be included in the heritage area 
     management plan as required in section 203 of this title.

     SEC. 202. CANE RIVER NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA COMMISSION.

       (a) Establishment.--To assist in implementing the purposes 
     of this Act and to provide guidance for the management of the 
     heritage area, there is established the Cane River National 
     Heritage Area Commission (hereinafter referred to as the 
     ``Commission'').
       (b) Membership.--The Commission shall consist of 19 members 
     to be appointed no later than 6 months after the date of 
     enactment of this Act. The Commission shall be appointed by 
     the Secretary as follows--
       (1) one member from recommendations submitted by the mayor 
     of Natchitoches;
       (2) one member from recommendations submitted by the 
     Association for the Preservation of Historic Natchitoches;
       (3) one member from recommendations submitted by the 
     Natchitoches Historic Foundation, Inc.;
       (4) two members with experience in and knowledge of tourism 
     in the heritage area from recommendations submitted by local 
     business and tourism organizations;
       (5) one member from recommendations submitted by the 
     Governor of the State of Louisiana;
       (6) one member from recommendations submitted by the Police 
     Jury of Natchitoches Parish;
       (7) one member from recommendations submitted by the 
     Concerned Citizens of Cloutierville;
       (8) one member from recommendations submitted by the St. 
     Augustine Historical Society;
       (9) one member from recommendations submitted by the Black 
     Heritage Committee;
       (10) one member from recommendations submitted by the Los 
     Adaes/Robeline Community;
       (11) one member from recommendations submitted by the 
     Natchitoches Historic District Commission;
       (12) one member from recommendations submitted by the Cane 
     River Waterway Commission;
       (13) two members who are landowners in and residents of the 
     heritage area;
       (14) one member with experience and knowledge of historic 
     preservation from recommendations submitted by Museum 
     Contents, Inc.;
       (15) one member with experience and knowledge of historic 
     preservation from recommendations submitted by the President 
     of Northwestern State University of Louisiana;
       (16) one member with experience in and knowledge of 
     environmental, recreational and conservation matters 
     affecting the heritage area from recommendations submitted by 
     the Natchitoches Sportsmans Association and other local 
     recreational and environmental organizations; and
       (17) the director of the National Park Service, or the 
     Director's designee, ex officio.
       (c) Duties of the Commission.--The Commission shall--
       (1) prepare a management plan for the heritage area in 
     consultation with the National Park Service, the State of 
     Louisiana, the City of Natchitoches, Natchitoches Parish, 
     interested groups, property owners, and the public;
       (2) consult with the Secretary on the preparation of the 
     general management plan for the historical park;
       (3) develop cooperative agreements with property owners, 
     preservation groups, educational groups, the State of 
     Louisiana, the City of Natchitoches, universities, and 
     tourism groups, and other groups to further the purposes of 
     this Act; and
       (4) identify appropriate entities, such as a non-profit 
     corporation, that could be established to assume the 
     responsibilities of the Commission following its termination.
       (d) Powers of the Commission.--In furtherance of the 
     purposes of this Act, the Commission is authorized to--
       (1) procure temporary and intermittent services to the same 
     extent that is authorized by section 3109(b) of title 5, 
     United States Code, but at rates determined by the Commission 
     to be reasonable;
       (2) accept the services of personnel detailed from the 
     State of Louisiana or any political subdivision thereof, and 
     may reimburse the State or political subdivision for such 
     services;
       (3) upon the request of the Commission, the head of any 
     Federal agency may detail, on a reimbursable basis, any of 
     the personnel of such agency to the Commission to assist the 
     Commission in carrying out its duties;
       (4) appoint and fix the compensation of such staff as may 
     be necessary to carry out its duties. Staff shall be 
     appointed subject to the provisions of title 5, United States 
     Code, governing appointments in the competitive service, and 
     shall be paid in accordance with the provisions of chapter 51 
     and subchapter III of chapter 53 of such title relating to 
     classification and General Schedule pay rates;
       (5) enter into cooperative agreements with public or 
     private individuals or entities for research, historic 
     preservation, and education purposes;
       (6) make grants to assist in the preparation of studies 
     that identify, preserve, and plan for the management of the 
     heritage area;
       (7) notwithstanding any other provision of law, seek and 
     accept donations of funds or services from individuals, 
     foundations, or other public or private entities and expend 
     the same for the purposes of providing services and programs 
     in furtherance of the purposes of this Act;
       (8) assist others in developing educational, informational, 
     and interpretive programs and facilities;
       (9) hold such hearings, sit and act at such times and 
     places, take such testimony, and receive such evidence, as 
     the Commission may consider appropriate; and
       (10) use the United States mails in the same manner and 
     under the same conditions as other departments or agencies of 
     the United States.
       (e) Compensation.--Members of the Commission shall receive 
     no compensation for their service on the Commission. While 
     away from their homes or regular places of business in the 
     performance of services for the Commission, members shall be 
     allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of 
     subsistence, in the same manner as persons employed 
     intermittently in the Government service are allowed expenses 
     under section 5703 of title 5, United States Code.
       (f) Chairman.--The Commission shall elect a chairman from 
     among its members. The term of the chairman shall be for 3 
     years.
       (g) Terms.--The terms of Commission members shall be for 3 
     years. Any member of the Commission appointed by the 
     Secretary for a 3-year term may serve after expiration of his 
     or her term until a successor is appointed. Any vacancy shall 
     be filled in the same manner in which the original 
     appointment was made. Any member appointed to fill a vacancy 
     shall serve for the remainder of the term for which the 
     predecessor was appointed.
       (h) Annual Reports.--The Commission shall submit an annual 
     report to the Secretary identifying its expenses and any 
     income, the entities to which any grants or technical 
     assistance were made during the year for which the report is 
     made, and actions that are planned for the following year.

     SEC. 203. PREPARATION OF THE PLAN.

       (a) In General.--Within 3 years after the Commission 
     conducts its first meeting, it shall prepare and submit a 
     heritage area management plan to the Governor of the State of 
     Louisiana. The Governor shall, if the Governor approves the 
     plan, submit it to the Secretary for review and approval. The 
     Secretary shall provide technical assistance to the 
     Commission in the preparation and implementation of the plan, 
     in concert with actions by the National Park Service to 
     prepare a general management plan for the historical park. 
     The plan shall consider local government plans and shall 
     present a unified heritage preservation and education plan 
     for the heritage area. The plan shall include, but not be 
     limited to--
       (1) an inventory of important properties and cultural 
     landscapes that should be preserved, managed, developed, and 
     maintained because of their cultural, natural, and public use 
     significance;
       (2) an analysis of current land uses within the area and 
     how they affect the goals of preservation and public use of 
     the heritage area;
       (3) an interpretive plan to address the cultural and 
     natural history of the area, and actions to enhance visitor 
     use. This element of the plan shall be undertaken in 
     consultation with the National Park Service and visitor use 
     plans for the national historical park;
       (4) recommendations for coordinating actions by local, 
     State, and Federal governments within the heritage area, to 
     further the purposes of this Act; and
       (5) an implementation program for the plan including 
     desired actions by State and local governments and other 
     involved groups and entities.
       (b) Approval of the Plan.--The Secretary shall approve or 
     disapprove the plan within 90 days after receipt of the plan 
     from the Commission. The Commission shall notify the 
     Secretary of the status of approval by the Governor of 
     Louisiana when the plan is submitted for review and approval. 
     In determining whether or not to approve the plan the 
     Secretary shall consider--
       (1) whether the Commission has afforded adequate 
     opportunity, including public meetings and hearings, for 
     public and governmental involvement in the preparation of the 
     plan; and
       (2) whether reasonable assurances have been received from 
     the State and local governments that the plan is supported 
     and that the implementation program is feasible.
       (c) Disapproval of the Plan.--If the Secretary disapproves 
     the plan, he shall advise the Commission in writing of the 
     reasons for disapproval, and shall provide recommendations 
     and assistance in the revision of the plan. Following 
     completion of any revisions to the plan, the Commission shall 
     resubmit the plan to the Governor of Louisiana for approval, 
     and to the Secretary, who shall approve or disapprove the 
     plan within 90 days after the date that the plan is revised.

     SEC. 204. TERMINATION OF HERITAGE AREA COMMISSION.

       (a) Termination.--The Commission shall terminate on the day 
     occurring 10 years after the first official meeting of the 
     Commission.
       (b) Extension.--The Commission may petition to be extended 
     for a period of not more than 5 years beginning on the day 
     referred to in subsection (a), provided the Commission 
     determines a critical need to fulfill the purposes of this 
     Act; and the Commission obtains approval from the Secretary, 
     in consultation with the Governor of Louisiana.
       (c) Heritage Area Management Following Termination of the 
     Commission.--The national heritage area status for the Cane 
     River region shall continue following the termination of the 
     Commission. The management plan, and partnerships and 
     agreements subject to the plan shall guide the future 
     management of the heritage area. The Commission, prior to its 
     termination, shall recommend to the Governor of the State of 
     Louisiana and the Secretary, appropriate entities, including 
     the potential for a nonprofit corporation, to assume the 
     responsibilities of the Commission.

     SEC. 205. DUTIES OF OTHER FEDERAL AGENCIES.

       Any Federal entity conducting or supporting activities 
     directly affecting the heritage area shall--
       (1) consult with the Secretary and the Commission with 
     respect to implementation of their proposed actions; and
       (2) to the maximum extent practicable, coordinate such 
     activities with the Commission to minimize potential impacts 
     on the resources of the heritage area.

     SEC. 206. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

       There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be 
     necessary to carry out this Act.

                          ____________________