Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15) cosponsored legislation authored by Rep. Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), who introduced the Monterey Bay National Heritage Area Study Act. The bill would initiate a comprehensive study to assess whether the coastal communities adjacent to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary qualify for designation as a National Heritage Area.  Such a designation would highlight the region’s unique cultural, historical, and ecological significance while fostering opportunities for local economic growth and community collaboration.

“Monterey Bay is a unique ecosystem with a longstanding history that supports a robust community and attracts visitors from across the world. California’s coast and Monterey Bay in particular, are an integral part of what makes our Golden State the truly beautiful place that it is,” said Rep. Mullin.  “I am proud to join this effort that would include a robust community process to study the feasibility of a Monterey Bay National Heritage Area.”

“The Monterey Bay region is home to an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, history, and culture that deserves to be recognized and preserved for future generations,” said Rep. Panetta.  “Through the Monterey Bay National Heritage Area Study Act, we’re taking an essential first step toward recognizing and showcasing our area’s unique identity.  This study will help determine the feasibility and community support for this designation, while ensuring that local voices guide the process every step of the way.”

National Heritage Areas are public-private partnerships that leverage federal support to empower local conservation efforts, provide technical assistance, and spur economic development without imposing federal land use restrictions or affecting private property rights.  Designation would allow the Monterey Bay region to access additional resources to enhance tourism, preserve historical sites, and promote educational programs while retaining local control over land use and development decisions.

Original cosponsors of the bill include: Reps. Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Anna Eshoo (CA-16), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), and Kevin Mullin (CA-15).

“The Central Coast is home to some of the most scenic and culturally-significant landscapes, and that includes the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary,” said Rep. Lofgren.  “I’m proud to join Rep. Jimmy Panetta in introducing this bill that will allow the National Parks Service to study the coastal area near the sanctuary and determine whether it meets the standards of a National Heritage Area. This designation will help conserve natural resources, engage and educate the public, and celebrate our nation’s diverse heritage.”

“I fully support Rep. Panetta’s efforts to designate coastal areas in San Mateo, Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Luis Obispo Counties as the Monterey Bay National Heritage Area,” said Rep. Eshoo.  “The lands include spectacular beaches, the world-famous Highway 1, John Steinbeck country, and famous landmarks such as Cannery Row and Hearst Castle.  These extraordinary areas deserve recognition by the National Park Service so that future generations will have access to these treasures.”

“The Monterey Bay region is a true gem, rich in cultural, historical, and ecological significance and it deserves to be protected for years to come,” said Rep. Carbajal.  “The Monterey Bay National Heritage Area Study Act will help us gauge support for this designation while collaborating with local stakeholders and honoring community voices.”

Monterey Bay National Heritage Area Study Act directs the National Park Service (NPS) to conduct the study, which will:

• Examine whether the region meets the criteria for a National Heritage Area designation, including its cultural, historical, and ecological significance.
• Assess the feasibility of establishing a local coordinating entity to manage the area in collaboration with community partners.
• Include extensive consultation and listening sessions with local stakeholders across San Mateo, Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Luis Obispo Counties.

The Monterey Bay National Heritage Area Study Act does not designate the area as a National Heritage Area. Federal law requires a study to be completed before such a designation can be considered.  Should the study confirm strong community support and alignment with the criteria, further legislation would be necessary to establish the National Heritage Area formally.

The National Park Service would conduct a study, ensuring that the process is thorough, transparent, and inclusive.  The agency will consult with the community to determine the most appropriate timeline to begin the study, ensuring alignment with local needs and priorities.

Examples of existing National Heritage Areas include the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta in California, the entire state of Tennessee, and regions across West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Mississippi.  These areas have demonstrated how National Heritage Area designations can enhance regional identities, promote economic vitality, and preserve invaluable cultural and natural assets.

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