Section 106 Awareness & Action
Proud of your community’s history? Section 106 review is the law that ensures your voice matters when federal projects could affect historic places. It gives you the right to speak up and help protect properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places - once they’re gone, they’re gone forever.
Want to stay informed about upcoming Section 106 changes? Enter your email below to receive updates and resources.
New! Senate Permitting Reform Bill Introduced
A bipartisan permitting reform bill proposes substantial revisions to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. Preservation organizations across the country have raised concerns about the potential impacts on consultation, public participation, and protections for historic and cultural resources.
How to Help
-
Contact your federal elected representatives.
-
Join CCPA's advocacy efforts through the Government Review Committee.
-
Visit the links below for additional resources.
Timeline of Events
September 2026
Bipartisan Senate permitting reform bill introduced with proposed NHPA and Section 106 revisions.
July 2026
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation votes to advance proposed Section 106 regulatory changes. The changes are currently being reviewed by the Office of Internal and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) and have not been poste to the Federal Register.
Section 106 in Action
Section 106 requires federal agencies to look at how their projects might affect historic places. They must also consult with State or Tribal Historic Preservation Offices to decide if places qualify for the National Register of Historic Places and to plan ways to reduce harm, if necessary. This process helps protect our shared history before decisions are made. Every year, thousands of projects seamlessly go through the Section 106 process.
Proposed Changes to Section 106
The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) has voted on July 24, 2026 to make sweeping changes to Section 106 review. These changes would reduce community involvement and shift power entirely to federal agencies. Some of the most alarming changes are:
-
Your voice removed: Communities would no longer have a guaranteed say in decisions affecting historic places.
-
Agency control: Federal agencies would hold all authority, with little outside input.
-
Impact on Tribal Voices: These changes would diminish the influence of Tribal voices in protecting their cultural heritage, reducing their ability to participate meaningfully in decisions about sacred and historic sites.
-
Costs over culture: Developer costs would be prioritized over the values of cultural and historic sites.
-
No consultation: Agencies would not be required to consult with communities about impacts to historic properties.
These changes would silence local voices and put priceless heritage at risk.
What YOU Can Do
New! Senate Permitting Reform Bill for Section 106.
-
Take action by calling and writing to your representatives. Share why Section 106 matters to our profession, our communities, and the cultural resources we work to protect.
The proposed changes to Section 106 will be published in the Federal Register, triggering a 30‑day public comment period. This is the window when anyone can formally share concerns with the administration. The exact date is still unknown - it could open with little notice - but CCPA will post updates as soon as the comment period begins.
Take Action:
-
Submit a comment: Start preparing your comments now so you're ready. Your unique voice matters. Form letters count only once, and AI detectors will likely be used. Original content is essential. Once the comment period opens, tell the administration why you oppose these changes.
-
Contact representatives: Let your elected officials know why Section 106 and community oversight matter to you.
-
Spread the word: Encourage friends, family, and local organizations to participate once the comment period opens.
Your participation helps protect the places and stories that define our communities.
Resources
Here are some additional sources of information:
-
106 Strong Campaign: A national coalition providing updates, advocacy resources, and opportunities to support and defend the Section 106 review process
-
SAA Statement on ACHP Draft Changes: The Society for American Archaeology outlines its concerns with the proposed Section 106 revisions, emphasizing the importance of public involvement and professional oversight.
-
NATHPO July 2026 Updates: The National Association of Tribal Historic Preservation Officers shares the latest updates on Section 106 and Tribal perspectives, including advocacy efforts and upcoming opportunities for engagement.
-
SAH Guidance on Proposed Revisions: The Society of Architectural Historians explains what the draft changes mean for communities, preservationists, and the future of historic places.
-
Saving Places: Section 106 Overview: The National Trust for Historic Preservation provides an accessible overview of Section 106, why it matters, and how the public can participate in protecting heritage.