The House Natural Resources Committee will vote this week on bipartisan legislation to reauthorize expired portions of the landmark Great American Outdoors Act.
The “Great American Outdoors Act 250” from Chair Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) and ranking member Jared Huffman (D-Calif.) would extend and reform the Legacy Restoration Fund for national parks and other public lands. The duo introduced the bill in recent weeks after months of negotiations.
“As millions of Americans are preparing to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence, Congress is coming together in a bipartisan manner to enhance access, improve visitor experiences, and create new outdoor recreation opportunities,” Westerman said in a statement.
The legislation would extend the program at $1.9 billion annually. A new $100 park fee for international visitors — on top of other entrance fees — would help offset the cost. Westerman and Huffman also included new selection criteria for projects.
