U.S. Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA) on Feb. 20 sponsored a bipartisan bill that would extend and increase federal resourcing for the American Battlefield Protection Program (ABPP) through 2035.
“We have a responsibility, as Americans, to honor the legacy of those that came before us,” Rep. Kiggans said. “While these battlefields are the sites for the most critical moments of the Revolutionary War, they are also graveyards for the brave soldiers that lost their lives in pursuit of our country’s independence.”
The congresswoman introduced the American Battlefield Protection Program Amendment Act of 2026, H.R. 7618, alongside lead original cosponsor U.S. Rep. Seth Magaziner (D-RI) to modify certain cost-sharing requirements for grant programs under the ABPP. The current authorization of the program expires in 2028.
In addition to extending the authorization, H.R. 7618 would make four improvements to the ABPP. It would provide the program with $20 million a year in funding; combine two separate $1 million grant authorizations into one $2 million authorization; direct the National Park Service (NPS) to study the potential for preservation of the significant U.S. battlefields in the French and Indian War (1754-1763); and for the NPS to study the same for the battlefields in the Mexican-American War (1846-1848).
“As we celebrate the 250th birthday of our nation, I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation alongside Rep. Magaziner to preserve these sacred sites, protect our national heritage, and ensure future generations understand the cost of the freedoms we enjoy today,” said Rep. Kiggans.
American Battlefield Trust President David Duncan supports the measure, which has been referred for consideration to the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee.
“America’s battlefields are a direct link to our history, each one telling the stories of the Americans whose incredible bravery has sustained our nation,” said Rep. Magaziner. “I am proud to co-lead the reintroduction of the American Battlefield Protection Program reauthorization bill to ensure future generations can experience, learn from, and honor our nation’s sacred ground.”