The Office of Policy and Legislative Affairs (OPLA) develops preservation policy recommendations, analyzes legislation proposed at the federal/state/local levels and Executive Branch policy initiatives, and participates in ACHP programs and research related to major national preservation issues. 

This office’s core responsibilities include:

  • policy development addressing timely topics such as climate change, housing and historic preservation, and traditional trades training;
  • analysis of federal legislation and development of recommendations for agency positions and testimony;
  • responding to requests to review proposed state or local legislation affecting preservation of historic properties;
  • review and analysis of federal policies as they relate to historic preservation;
  • participation in partnership activities and special initiatives;  
  • support of ACHP operations, including strategic planning, budget development coordination, and administration of the ACHP internship program.