Senators call on Trump administration to pause hike in national park fees [View all]
Source: The Hill
12/26/25 8:10 PM ET
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) is calling on the Trump administration to pause its plan to raise national park entrance fees, calling the move “discriminatory.” Wyden is among a group of five senators who sent a letter to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, raising concerns over national park entrance fee increases set to take place January 1. The senators argue the fee increases are taking place without proper notice, will slow entry into the parks and will limit visits from international tourists.
In November, the Department of the Interior announced a new fee structure, which will charge non-residents $250 for an annual national park pass. The passes will cost $80 for United States citizens and residents. According to Wyden’s office, this is the first time the U.S. is requiring proof of residency to access public lands.
The new fee structure also requires non-residents ages 16 and up, who do not have an annual pass, to pay $100 to enter 11 of the most visited parks in the country.
“America’s national parks serve as destinations for visitors both domestically and internationally to experience our country’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and history,” the senators wrote to Burgum. “While we understand that entrance and recreation fees are vital to enhancing the visitor experience, we want to ensure all feel welcome to enjoy all national treasures. Since these new fees are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026, we strongly believe these fees are being implemented too quickly, without public input, and will be a barrier for both residents and non-residents alike.”
Read more: https://thehill.com/homenews/nexstar_media_wire/5663826-senators-call-on-trump-administration-to-pause-hike-in-national-park-fees/
Link to Sen. Wyden PRESS RELEASE - Wyden, Colleagues Demand Trump Administration Pause Discriminatory National Park Entry Fees
Link to LETTER (inquiry) (PDF) - https://www.padilla.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/Senate-Letter-to-DOI-re-Park-Entrance-Fees-12.23.25.pdf
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