Bill > S2308

This bill amends the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to impose a surcharge on international visitors entering U.S. National Parks. Specifically, the bill defines "international visitors" as nonimmigrant individuals entering the U.S. under certain visa categories (tourist visas and visa waiver program), and allows park superintendents to establish a surcharge that maximizes revenue while maintaining international visitation levels. The surcharge would be collected either directly by the Secretary or through third-party travel vendors, and would be separate from existing visa fees. Park superintendents would have flexibility to modify or suspend the surcharge based on visitation levels, and the Secretary can establish minimum percentage increases. All proceeds from the surcharge would be retained by the specific national park where it was collected and used for maintenance, visitor services, staffing, and related needs. Additionally, the bill establishes a separate surcharge for National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Passes sold to international visitors, with those proceeds to be deposited in the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund. The bill aims to generate additional revenue for national parks by targeting international tourism.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2308/all-info