Semiquincentennial Tourism and Access to Recreation Sites Act; STARS Act
Summary
The Semiquincentennial Tourism and Access to Recreation Sites Act (STARS Act) mandates a one-day entrance-fee waiver for National Park Service sites and waives standard amenity recreation fees at sites managed by the Bureau of Land Management, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Reclamation, and the Forest Service on September 17, 2026. This is to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The Act aims to increase public access to recreational sites. It temporarily removes financial barriers to these sites.
The bill was passed by the House of Representatives and received in the Senate, where it was referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
Expected Effects
The STARS Act will result in a temporary increase in visitation to national parks and recreational sites on September 17, 2026. This will provide a one-day opportunity for more people to access these sites without paying entrance or amenity fees.
The Act will also lead to a temporary loss of revenue for the agencies managing these sites. The exact amount is difficult to determine without visitation estimates.
It may also increase awareness and appreciation of the nation's natural and cultural heritage.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to recreational sites for all Americans, regardless of income, on a specific date.
- Promotion of tourism and visitation to national parks and other federal recreational areas.
- Celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States, fostering national pride and unity.
- Potential for increased awareness and appreciation of natural and cultural resources.
- Opportunity for families and individuals to experience the outdoors and engage in recreational activities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Temporary loss of revenue for the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Reclamation, and the Forest Service.
- Potential for overcrowding and increased strain on park resources on the designated free day.
- Administrative costs associated with implementing the fee waiver.
- The benefit is limited to a single day, potentially creating a concentrated surge in visitation rather than sustained engagement.
- Potential for increased traffic and congestion around recreational sites on the free day.
Constitutional Alignment
The STARS Act appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to promote access to recreational sites for the benefit of the American people. The act falls under the legislative powers granted to Congress in Article I, Section 8, which includes the power to manage federal lands and provide for the general welfare.
There are no apparent conflicts with individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments. The act does not infringe upon freedom of speech, religion, or any other protected right.
The act's focus on celebrating the nation's anniversary can be seen as promoting national unity and civic engagement, which aligns with the broader goals outlined in the Constitution's preamble.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).