January 1, Higher National Park Fees For Foreign Travelers Loom

Wyatt’s Take

• Congress may make Trump’s park fee hike for foreigners permanent
• Funds would help fix billions in overdue park repairs
• American taxpayers get a fair deal under this plan

Senator Jim Banks from Indiana wants to keep President Trump’s rule that makes foreigners pay more to visit our National Parks.

This bill, called the Patriot Parks Act, would help fix old buildings, roads, and trails that have been falling apart because of budget cuts and too many people visiting.

“Americans already pay for our parks through federal taxes on top of standard admission fees, so it’s fair to ask foreign visitors to chip in more,” said Banks.

Right now, our parks have a $23 billion problem due to years of missed repairs. Past laws helped some, but as that money runs out, the new bill would bring in extra cash just as more tourists are showing up.

The National Park Service saw 331.9 million visits last year, and a third of all foreign travelers take time to see these parks.

President Trump first made foreign visitors pay higher fees through an order in 2025. The Department of the Interior, led by Secretary Doug Burgum, says this move keeps parks open and protected for everyone.

The bill has support in both the Senate and the House, with leaders saying it will back up the efforts to take care of our parks for years to come.

“We owe it to future generations to ensure these natural marvels are protected,” said Congressman Riley Moore.

Learn more about the Patriot Parks Act and what it could mean for our lands below.

Wyatt Matters

Americans carry the load to keep our parks clean and open, so it’s only right others pitch in. Standing up for our lands means standing up for common sense fairness. Protecting these places honors the work and sacrifices of ordinary folks across the country.

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