U.S. Representative Juan Ciscomani announced on Mar. 16 that the House of Representatives has passed his bipartisan Chiricahua National Park Act (H.R. 6380), which would designate Cochise County’s Chiricahua National Monument as a national park.
The legislation aims to elevate the monument to national park status, which supporters say will protect public lands and increase tourism in southeastern Arizona, leading to economic growth in the region.
“The Chiricahua National Park Act honors one of southeastern Arizona’s most incredible natural treasures by giving Chiricahua National Monument a national park status,” Ciscomani said. “This redesignation will protect our public lands while also bringing more tourism to our region boosting economic development. I’m proud to introduce legislation that highlights what’s special about our region and reflects the unique priorities of Arizona.”
Chairman Westerman of the House Committee on Natural Resources said, “The Chiricahua National Monument is an area of immense natural beauty with great cultural and historical significance. It is a fitting choice to become Arizona’s fourth national park, and I look forward to working with Rep. Ciscomani on getting this legislation signed into law.”
If enacted, the bill would make Chiricahua National Monument—established over a century ago—Arizona’s fourth national park alongside Saguaro, Grand Canyon, and Petrified Forest National Parks. Local leaders have voiced support for the measure, citing its potential impact on jobs and rural economies.
Greg Hancock, Mayor of Willcox, said: “As the Mayor of Willcox and a small-business owner, I can tell you firsthand that redesignating the Chiricahuas as a National Park would be transformational. Tourism isn’t just helpful to our community — it’s essential. A National Park designation would bring more visitors, support local jobs, and strengthen the entire economy of rural Arizona.” Matthew Nelson from the Arizona Trail Association added: “Arizona is home to so many natural and cultural wonders… This special place is deserving of National Park status… It gives me great hope to see Congress supporting increased protection of the public lands that mean so much to those of us living in Baja Arizona.” Camilla Simon from HECHO said: “HECHO applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for passing the Chiricahua National Park Act… Designating Chiricahua as a national park will strengthen conservation, increase tourism, protect Tribal access, and grow the outdoor recreation economy… We look forward to the Senate advancing this important legislation…”
Orlando Cazarez from Hispanic Conservation Leadership Council commented: “Today’s passage of this bill recognizes the extraordinary value of places like Chiricahua National Monument and the surrounding Coronado National Forest… Protecting this remarkable place helps ensure that future generations can encounter the same sense of awe…” Melany Edwards-Barton from Sky Islands Regional Partnership stated: “This is an exciting and monumental step forward following years of effort by Congressman Ciscomani on the Chiricahua National Park Act… His leadership… reflects his strong commitment to our region… we are proud to support it for both enhancement to conservation and boost to economic development potential in the region.”
Ciscomani has represented Arizona’s 6th District since 2023 after replacing Ann Kirkpatrick according to Ballotpedia. He won elections against Kirsten Engel in both 2022 and 2024 as reported by The New York Timesand The New York Times. Born in Hermosillo, Mexico in 1982, Ciscomani lives in Tucson according to AZCentral, holds a BA from University of Arizona (2005) according to AZCentral, and is currently serving at age 40.
The bill now moves on for consideration by the U.S Senate.
