Sen. Kelly Re-Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Make Chiricahua Arizona’s Fourth National Park

Today, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly re-introduced the Chiricahua National Park Act, bipartisan and bicameral legislation to re-designate the Chiricahua National Monument as a national park. The Chiricahua National Park Act is co-sponsored by Senator Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) and was introduced by Representative Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-06) in the House of Representatives. The legislation would make Chiricahua the fourth national park in Arizona.

“Our bipartisan legislation to designate Chiricahua National Monument as a national park would further promote conservation, boost tourism, and create economic opportunities in Southern Arizona,” said Senator Kelly.

“Arizona has the best national parks in the world. Adding Chiricahua National Monument as Arizona’s fourth national park will boost tourism, create jobs, and fuel opportunity in Cochise County,” said Senator Sinema.
“Chiricahua National Monument has long been a beloved landmark in Southern Arizona,” said Congressman Ciscomani. “These unique formations draw visitors from across the nation and around the world to our state, and this tourism is an important part of our regional economy. With this legislation, the Chiricahuas will finally receive the designation they deserve. It is long overdue.”

Nearly 100 years ago, the Chiricahua National Monument was established by a presidential proclamation in order to preserve unique geologic features that are remnants of one of the largest known volcanic eruptions which occurred 27 million years ago. The monument is located in Cochise County and attracts visitors from around the world for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

The Chiricahua National Park Act is supported by the City of Benson, the City of Bisbee, Huachuca City, the City of Wilcox, and the Cochise County Board of Supervisors.