Photo: iStockphoto
Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth could be restored as fee-free admission days at U.S. National Parks under new legislation following their removal by the Trump administration earlier this year, per Newsweek.
The proposal, titled the Encouraging Public Service in Our National Parks and Public Land Act, was recently introduced by Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada), Ron Wyden (D-Oregon), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), and Adam Schiff (D-California). It would permanently codify six fee-free days at national parks and federal lands, including MLK Day, the first day of National Park Week, Juneteenth, Great American Outdoors Day, National Public Lands Day, and Veterans Day.
The legislation comes after the Trump administration removed MLK Day and Juneteenth from the fee-free calendar last month and added the president's birthday, June 14, which also coincides with Flag Day. Those changes are set to take effect January 1, 2026.
“Donald Trump’s decision to remove Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth from the list of free-of-charge days at our national parks — while adding his own birthday — is a disturbing combination of divisive politics and megalomania,” Schiff said in a statement. “This bill restores those holidays and makes free entrance days permanent.”
Cortez Masto said fee-free days were intended to encourage civic engagement, not personal recognition.
“Let’s recommit to ensuring free entry days promote public service, not stroke the President’s ego,” she said.
The Interior Department declined to comment on pending legislation. Other new policy changes set to take effect include requiring foreign visitors to pay a $100 entry fee at 11 of the most popular parks, including Yellowstone and Yosemite, and $250 for an annual non-resident pass. Free days are also now limited to U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said the administration’s approach ensures U.S. taxpayers keep affordable access while international visitors “pay their fair share.”
The bill to codify fee-free days has been referred to the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, where it awaits hearings and possible amendments.
The Black Information Network is your source for Black News! Get the latest news 24/7 on The Black Information Network. Listen now on the iHeartRadio app or click HERE to tune in live.
