In a significant bipartisan effort, Senators Steve Daines (R-MT) and Angus King (I-ME) have introduced the America the Beautiful Act, aiming to reauthorize and strengthen the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund (LRF). This legislation addresses the extensive maintenance backlog across America’s public lands, ensuring these treasured spaces remain accessible and safe for all [1].
Why This Matters
President Trump signed the Great American Outdoors Act into law in 2020, providing billions to the LRF, which has been instrumental in funding critical repairs and improvements on public lands. However, with the fund set to expire in 2025, the >America the Beautiful Act proposes to extend its authorization through 2033 and increase its annual funding to $2 billion [1]. This extension is crucial, as federal land management agencies currently face a combined maintenance backlog exceeding $40 billion, including:
- National Park Service: $23.26 billion [2]
- U.S. Forest Service: $8.695 billion [3]
- Bureau of Land Management: $5.72 billion [1]
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: $2.65 billion [1]
- Bureau of Indian Education: $804.5 million [1]
The Impact
The LRF has already facilitated numerous projects, such as trail restorations, facility upgrades, and infrastructure improvements, enhancing visitor experiences and promoting safety. Reauthorizing and bolstering this fund will not only preserve these advancements but also support local economies, as outdoor recreation contributes significantly to job creation and economic growth [4].
Take Action
Your voice is vital in ensuring the continuation of this essential funding. Please join us by contacting your legislators and expressing support for the America the Beautiful Act, which preserves and enhances our nation’s public lands.
Together, we can ensure that America’s natural treasures are maintained and cherished for generations to come.
Citations
- Daines, S. (2025, May 1). Daines, King, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan America the Beautiful Act. https://www.daines.senate.gov/2025/05/01/daines-king-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-america-the-beautiful-act
- National Park Service Deferred Maintenance Reports: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/infrastructure/deferred-maintenance.htm
- U.S. Forest Service Capital Investment Strategy: https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/infrastructure
- Outdoor Recreation Economy Data: Outdoor Industry Association, https://outdoorindustry.org