December 10, 2025
Ms. Cortez Masto (for herself, Mr. Wyden, Ms. Hirono, and Mr. Schiff) introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources
To amend the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act to provide that entrance fees shall not be charged for entry to Federal recreational lands and water on certain days, and for other purposes.
Section 1. Short title
This Act may be cited as the Encouraging Public Service in Our National Parks and Public Land Act
.
Sec. 2. Findings
Congress finds that—
(1)
the units of the National Park System and other public land are protected for the benefit of all people of the United States; and
(2)
fee-free days for units of the National Park System and other Federal recreational lands and waters—
(A)
have been opportunities for the people of the United States to support units of the National Park System and other Federal recreational lands and waters through community service activities; and
(B)
should align with important dates and holidays to show our national pride and encourage volunteerism.
Sec. 3. Fee-free days for Federal recreational lands and waters
Section 805(e) of the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (16 U.S.C. 6804(e)) is amended by striking The Secretary may provide for
and inserting the following:
(1) Fee-free days for Federal recreational lands and waters
The Secretary shall provide for a free admission day or use of Federal recreational lands and waters on the following days each year:
(A)
The Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr., the third Monday in January.
(B)
The first day of National Park Week in April.
(C)
Juneteenth National Independence Day, June 19.
(D)
Great American Outdoors Day, August 4.
(E)
National Public Lands Day, the fourth Saturday in September.
(F)
Veterans Day, November 11.
(2) Additional authority for Federal recreational lands and waters
In addition to the days required under paragraph (1), the Secretary may provide for