Congress·In Committee·H.R. 5555

Monterey Bay: Study for New National Heritage Area

Monterey Bay National Heritage Area Study Act

Legislative Progress

House

Senate

President

Law

Rep. Panetta and other California leaders introduced a bill to start a formal study of the Monterey Bay region. They want to see if the area should be officially named a National Heritage Area, which is a special label for places with important history and culture.
The study would cover four counties: Monterey, San Mateo, Santa Cruz, and San Luis Obispo. Experts would look at whether these areas have unique stories or natural beauty that are important to the entire United States.
If the area gets this designation, it wouldn't become a national park, but it would receive federal help to promote tourism and protect local landmarks. The government would work closely with local cities, Tribal Governments, and businesses to make a plan.

3 milestones3 actions

Mar 11, 2026House

Referred to the Subcommittee on Federal Lands.

Sep 23, 2025House

Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.

Sep 23, 2025

Introduced in House

Document Type

Congressional Bill

Official Title

Monterey Bay National Heritage Area Study Act

Bill NumberHR 5555

Congress119th Congress

ChamberHouse of Representatives

Latest ActionReferred to the Subcommittee on Federal Lands.

(5)

D: 5

Congress.gov

Official legislative information

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