WASHINGTON, D.C. — A fourth national park in Arizona is one step closer to reality.
Arizona Congressman Juan Ciscomani’s bill to reclassify Chiricahua National Monument to a national park has passed out of the House.
During his speech on the House floor in support of HR 6380, Ciscomani said the redesignation would not expand the Chiricahua’s footprint or impact its land use.
“Just as important, this bill supports economic opportunity in rural Arizona,” Ciscomani said. “The redesignation would help raise Chiricahua’s national profile, attract more visitors and strengthen tourism across Southeastern Arizona.”
The bill now moves to the Senate, where companion legislation has already been introduced by Arizona Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego.
The legislation introduced by Kelly and Gallego also includes protections for traditional cultural and religious sites, requiring consultation with Tribes and ensuring continued access for traditional cultural and customary uses.
Established in 1924, Chiricahua National Monument spans more than 12,000 acres of towering rock formations, canyons, and diverse wildlife in Northern Cochise County, near Willcox.
Redesignation would make Chiricahua Arizona’s fourth national park, alongside Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest, and Saguaro National Parks.
