§410llll–1. Traditional cultural and religious sites
(a) Protection of sites
(1) In general
The Secretary shall ensure the protection of traditional cultural and religious sites in the National Park in accordance with the laws (including regulations) applicable to the Secretary.
(2) Consultation
In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consult with Indian Tribes in accordance with laws applicable to the protection of cultural and religious sites.
(b) Access
(1) In general
The Secretary, in accordance with Public Law 95–341 (42 U.S.C. 1996 et seq.)—
(A) shall provide access to the sites described in subsection (a)(1) by members of Indian Tribes for traditional cultural and customary uses; and
(B) may, on request of an Indian Tribe, temporarily close to general public use one or more specific areas of the National Park to protect traditional cultural and customary uses in the area by members of the Indian Tribe.
(2) Limitation
In closing a portion of a designated area under paragraph (1)(B), the Secretary shall limit the closure to the smallest practicable area for the minimum period necessary for the traditional cultural and religious activities.
(c) Definitions
In this section:
(1) Indian Tribe
The term “Indian Tribe” has the meaning given such term in section 5304 of title 25.
(2) Secretary
The term “Secretary” means the Secretary of the Interior.
( Pub. L. 119-133, § 3 , Oct. 20, 2026 , 140 Stat. 1095 .)
Editorial Notes
References in Text
Public Law 95–341, referred to in subsec. (b)(1), is Pub. L. 95-341, Aug. 11, 1978, 92 Stat. 469, popularly known as the American Indian Religious Freedom Act, which enacted sections 1996 and 1996a of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare, and provisions set out as a note under section 1996 of Title 42.