Encouraging Public Service in Our National Parks and Public Land Act
Term Dictionary
If you come across any unfamiliar words while reading, these resources can help make everything clearer. Pick whichever one works best for you!
- Congress.gov Legislative Glossary - Comprehensive congressional terms
- NVFC Congressional Terms Glossary - Concise, easy-to-understand definitions
The gist
Forces the Interior Department to offer 6 free admission days at national parks and federal lands every year, instead of leaving it up to officials' discretion.
Who wins, who loses
- Wins: families on tight budgets, teens visiting parks, outdoor recreation groups, volunteer service organizations.
- Loses: park fee revenue accounts; no offsetting funding included to cover lost entrance fees.
What it does
- Changes one word in the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act from 'may' to 'shall' ā€” making free days a legal requirement.
- Locks in 6 dates: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, first day of National Park Week, Juneteenth, Great American Outdoors Day (Aug 4), National Public Lands Day, Veterans Day.
- Lets the Interior Secretary still add extra free days beyond the required 6.
Why should I care?
Supporters say public lands belong to everyone, and a $35 vehicle fee shouldn't block low-income families from visiting Yellowstone or the Grand Canyon. Critics argue parks already lose revenue needed for trail maintenance and staffing, and the Secretary should keep flexibility. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.