A proposed federal reform bill could put historic sites across South Carolina at risk by weakening public involvement in the review of federally funded projects.
The Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act is scheduled for consideration by the U.S. Senate on Nov. 9 as part of a larger funding bill. Preservation advocates, specifically the Preservation Society of Charleston, are urging Gov. Henry McMaster and U.S. Sens. Tim Scott and Darline Graham to oppose changes to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966.
Under the current Section 106 process, projects receiving federal resources must consult with parties potentially affected by their development. The proposed legislation would make those local consultations optional, potentially limiting opportunities for communities, preservation organizations and tribal leaders to provide input.
State cultural organizations say the changes could eliminate an important safeguard for historic properties.
South Carolina has several examples of projects shaped by Section 106 consultations, including preservation efforts surrounding Florence National Cemetery, conservation work involving the Confederate submarine H.L. Hunley and protection of the Revolutionary War-era Fish Dam Ford battlefield in Chester County.
Preservation advocates argue these projects demonstrate how community involvement can help protect historic resources while allowing development to move forward.
The legislation could still be amended before passage. The coalition is urging lawmakers to remove the proposed Section 106 changes before the bill advances to the U.S. House.
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Patrick Byrne lives in Tega Cay with his wife and two daughters. After 25 years working for a Big 4 bank, he retired to pursue his passion for writing. Additional articles and content can be found on his blog (reverian1776.blogspot.com) and freethepeople.org.
