10/03/2026
Below is an urgent message from the CCPA President. Please help share this with your networks, and attend the Monday town hall with Cultural Heritage Partners. Thank you to everyone for the incredible support and engagement around this issue. Keep it up!!
Dear CCPA Members,
Recent developments at the federal level continue to raise concerns for the future of Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. A bipartisan permitting reform bill introduced by Senators Heinrich, Lee, Capito, and Whitehouse includes proposed changes that preservation organizations across the country believe would significantly weaken the Section 106 review process, particularly for energy and infrastructure projects. You can find the bill here with NHPA changes start on page 372.
Beyond the effects on historic properties, these changes could fundamentally alter the regulatory framework that supports much of the work conducted by archaeologists, historians, preservation professionals, Tribal partners, and cultural resource practitioners across the country. While the legislation is still early in the process, now is the time to take action.
I encourage each of you to make your voice heard by contacting your federal elected representatives and sharing why Section 106 matters to our profession, our communities, and the cultural resources we work to protect.
For those interested in learning more, a national briefing will be held on Monday at 12:00 p.m. Eastern, where Cultural Heritage Partners will discuss the proposed legislation, its potential impacts on Section 106, and how advocates can respond. The session will also provide updates on the next phase of the 106 Strong campaign: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83044811784
Finally, CCPA's Government Review Committee continues to monitor these developments and advocate for protection of archaeological resources in Colorado. So far, the GRC and volunteers have contacted over 50 different organizations to advocate for Section 106. A massive thank you to you all involved in those efforts! This level of engagement demonstrates both the importance of the issue and the commitment of preservation advocates across Colorado.
If you would like to be more involved in outreach and advocacy efforts, please consider joining the effort led by Jon Hedlund ([email protected]). Additional voices and volunteers are needed as these issues continue to evolve.
I’m also working to keep the Section 106 landing page on the CCPA website updated as new information becomes available. Please check the page periodically for resources and updates, and consider joining the CCPA ListServ if you have not already. Both are great ways to stay informed on Section 106 developments and other issues affecting Colorado archaeology and historic preservation.
While the challenges facing archaeology can feel daunting, it is encouraging to see how quickly a coalition has come together of professionals, Tribal Nations, organizations, and communities across the country in support of Section 106. Advocacy makes a difference, and your participation matters. As always, my inbox is open.
Thank you for your continued commitment to preserving Colorado's cultural heritage.
Warmly,
Jasmine Saxon
CCPA President 2026-2027
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