(1) Arkansas's historic sites need to be officially recognized for their heritage and cultural resources so that current and future generations can learn about their stories and enjoy them.
(2) Such includes geographic areas of historic importance.
(b) Accordingly, a new criterion will be added to the State Register of Historic Places program that will allow more opportunities for outward recognition, research, and heritage tourism opportunities for geographic areas of historic importance in our state.
(c) The new criterion to be added to the State Register of Historic Places program is "Criterion E: Geographic importance of a property", the additional property type to be added is "Area", and the additional area of significance to be added is "Geography/Community Identity".
(d)
(1) Arkansas Code § 1-4-134 created a new designation for historic sites known as an "Arkansas Heritage Site".
(2) Historic places listed in the State Register of Historic Places through any of Criteria A – E may also qualify for designation as an "Arkansas Heritage Site".