Federal Preservation Funding Update: Congress Returns from August Recess

Federal Preservation Funding Update

As Congress prepares to return from its August recess, several important federal funding decisions could have significant implications for historic preservation programs nationwide.

Before the recess, both the House and Senate passed different Continuing Resolutions (CRs) that would extend federal government funding into December. The two measures must now be reconciled before the current funding authorization expires on September 30.

Of particular importance to the preservation community, the Senate CR includes a provision delaying until December 11 implementation of a proposed Office of Management and Budget (OMB) rule that would significantly change how federal discretionary grants are reviewed and awarded. The proposal would expand political review of grant awards and the federal government’s ability to suspend or cancel grants.

Preservation Action has submitted formal comments opposing the proposed changes, emphasizing that historic preservation grant programs depend upon clear, stable, and consistent criteria rather than standards that could shift between administrations.

Historic Preservation Fund Funding

Congress is also continuing work on FY27 appropriations. The House Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill currently includes $163.5 million for the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF), approximately $17.4 million below FY26 funding levels. The legislation has advanced through the House Appropriations Committee but has not yet received a vote by the full House.

The HPF provides critical support for preservation activities across the country, including State Historic Preservation Offices, Certified Local Governments, preservation grants, documentation, planning, and programs that protect historic resources in communities throughout New Jersey.

With only a few weeks remaining before the September 30 funding deadline, Preservation New Jersey will continue to monitor these developments and advocate for strong, reliable federal support for historic preservation.