WASHINGTON, D.C. (LEX 18) – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has introduced the Camp Nelson Heritage National Monument Act, which would officially designate Camp Nelson in Jessamine County, Kentucky as a National Monument within the National Park System.
The difference between a National Monument and a National Park is who designates the area. Parks are created through an act of Congress and monuments are designated by the president.
Senator McConnell’s bill is the Senate companion of legislation sponsored in the House of Representatives by Congressman Andy Barr. This bill would act to preserve and protect the grounds.
“In support of the Nicholasville community and preserving this Kentucky treasure, I am proud to introduce the Camp Nelson Heritage National Monument Act and join Congressman Andy Barr in support of securing the recognition that Camp Nelson Civil War Heritage Park deserves,” said Senator McConnell. “I applaud Congressman Barr for his leadership in the House and look forward to continuing our work with Congressional colleagues and the Administration to see Camp Nelson designated as a national monument.”
If the U.S. Interior Secretary agrees, the space will become the first national monument in Kentucky.
