Congressman Ryan Zinke (R-MT), former Secretary of the Interior, and Senator Tim Sheehy (R-MT) today unveiled new legislation aimed at shoring up funding for America’s national parks by charging most foreign tourists a dedicated entry fee. Joined by Representative Riley Moore (R-WV) and Senator Jim Banks (R-IN), the group introduced the Protecting America’s Treasures by Raising Inflow from Overseas Tourists in Parks Act, or PATRIOT Parks Act.
The bill would implement a surcharge on international visitors to National Park Service (NPS) units that already collect entrance fees—modeled on policies already in place in countries like Ecuador, South Africa, and members of the European Union.
“National Parks are America’s best idea, but they require real investment to preserve for future generations,” said Zinke. “Americans already pay twice—through taxes and entrance fees. It’s time for foreign visitors to contribute their fair share, just like they do in nearly every other country.”
Zinke, who oversaw the National Park Service as Secretary of the Interior from 2017–2019, emphasized the bill’s roots in America First policy and credited former President Donald Trump for laying the groundwork through a 2020 executive order that first proposed a foreign visitor surcharge.
“This legislation codifies President Trump’s vision and ensures our public lands aren’t funded on the backs of American taxpayers alone,” Zinke added.
Senator Sheehy, a freshman lawmaker who has quickly aligned with conservative populist priorities, echoed Zinke’s message.
“Montana’s national parks bring in visitors from around the world—but it’s time they help maintain what they come to see,” said Sheehy. “The PATRIOT Parks Act is common sense: secure affordable access for American families, improve our parks, and make foreign tourists help foot the bill.”
The legislation comes at a time when the National Park System is facing a staggering $23 billion infrastructure maintenance backlog—including trails, restrooms, roads, water systems, and visitor facilities.
According to a report from the Property and Environment Research Center (PERC), a $40 surcharge per foreign visitor could generate over $500 million annually for park maintenance and restoration.
“People travel from around the world to experience America’s national parks—now they can help conserve them too,” said Brian Yablonski, CEO of PERC. “A foreign visitor surcharge is both practical and widely accepted in other nations. We appreciate Rep. Zinke’s leadership on this issue.”
Representative Moore emphasized the legislation’s fiscal impact on states like West Virginia, home to the New River Gorge National Park, which faces millions in deferred maintenance costs.
“This is about fairness and fiscal responsibility,” Moore said. “American families shouldn’t shoulder the burden alone. Our bill keeps U.S. entry fees static while charging more for foreigners—it’s a win-win for taxpayers and our natural heritage.”
The PATRIOT Parks Act is expected to gain traction among House Republicans and could be a key piece of the GOP’s 2026 messaging on public lands, infrastructure, and American sovereignty. Its passage would mark a major legislative win for Zinke and Sheehy, both of whom have prioritized rural investment and reforming public land management in Washington.
By: DNU staff