Noem Aims to Expand Black Hills National Cemetery with New Legislation

Noem Aims to Expand Black Hills
National Cemetery with New Legislation

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Kristi Noem today introduced the Black Hills National Cemetery Boundary Expansion Act, which would transfer nearly 200 acres of land outside Sturgis from the Bureau of Land Management’s jurisdiction to the Department of Veterans Affairs.  The transfer would give the Black Hills National Cemetery additional space to serve future veterans.

“Our men and women in uniform have made incredible sacrifices in service to our country.  The Black Hills National Cemetery is just one way our nation can serve them back,” said Noem.  “Every agency and constituency involved is in agreement on the permanent land transfer this bill would allow.  I’m hopeful we can see it move forward quickly and ensure the Black Hills National Cemetery can continue serving those who have worn our nation’s uniform.”

Opened in 1948, the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis rests on around 100 acres of land.  Unfortunately, the facility requires more room to continue serving future veterans.  The Bureau of Land Management currently holds land adjacent to the Cemetery.  Rep. Noem’s legislation would transfer that land, roughly 200 acres, from the Bureau of Land Management to the Department of Veterans Affairs in order to accommodate an expansion of the Black Hills National Cemetery.

Without legislation to make the transfer permanent, federal law limits transfers like this one to a lifespan of 20 years.  Senators Thune and Rounds introduced a similar bill in the Senate earlier this year.

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