Protect our Parks Act of 2025

Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

Bill 119 s 949, also known as the "National Park Service Staffing Act," aims to ensure that the National Park Service (NPS) is adequately staffed to effectively manage and maintain the nation's parks. The bill addresses the issue of understaffing within the NPS, which has led to challenges in preserving and protecting these important natural and cultural resources.

The key provisions of the bill include:

1. Requiring the NPS to conduct a comprehensive assessment of staffing needs across all national parks to determine the current staffing levels and identify any gaps or deficiencies. 2. Establishing a plan to address staffing shortages, including hiring additional personnel, providing training and professional development opportunities for existing staff, and improving recruitment and retention efforts. 3. Allocating funding to support the hiring and training of new staff members, as well as providing resources for ongoing maintenance and operations within the national parks. 4. Requiring the NPS to report regularly to Congress on its progress in implementing the staffing plan and addressing any challenges or obstacles that may arise. Overall, the goal of Bill 119 s 949 is to ensure that the NPS has the resources and personnel necessary to fulfill its mission of preserving and protecting the nation's natural and cultural heritage for future generations. By addressing staffing issues within the agency, the bill aims to enhance the visitor experience, improve park management, and promote the long-term sustainability of our national parks.