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Making National Parks Safer Act

2/10/2026, 5:32 PM

Summary of Bill S 290

Bill 119 s 290, also known as the "National Park Service Emergency Communications Improvement Act," aims to improve emergency communication systems within the National Park System. The bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to upgrade existing emergency communications centers to Next Generation 9-1-1 systems.

Next Generation 9-1-1 systems are advanced technologies that allow for more efficient and effective communication during emergencies. By upgrading these systems in National Park units, the bill seeks to enhance the safety and security of visitors and staff within these areas.

In addition to upgrading communication systems, the bill also includes provisions for other purposes related to emergency response within the National Park System. This may include training programs for staff, coordination with local emergency services, and other measures to improve overall emergency preparedness. Overall, Bill 119 s 290 aims to modernize and enhance emergency communication capabilities within the National Park System, ultimately improving the response to emergencies and ensuring the safety of those within these areas.

Congressional Summary of S 290

Making National Parks Safer Act

This bill directs the National Park Service (NPS) to develop a plan to install Next Generation 911 (NG911) systems, which are certain interoperable, digital, and secure Internet Protocol-based systems for receiving 9-1-1 calls. 

Specifically, the NPS must assess the implementation status and estimated costs of such NG911 systems at existing emergency communications centers in NPS units. The NPS must also develop a plan, based on the assessment, to install NG911 systems at centers.

Current Status of Bill S 290

Bill S 290 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 29, 2025. Bill S 290 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the Senate on January 29, 2025.  Bill S 290's most recent activity was Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Ordered to be reported without amendment favorably. as of February 4, 2026

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 290

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
3
Democrat Cosponsors
1
Republican Cosponsors
1
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
1

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 290

Primary Policy Focus

Public Lands and Natural Resources

Potential Impact Areas

- Congressional oversight
- Emergency communications systems
- Government studies and investigations
- Parks, recreation areas, trails

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 290

A bill to direct the Secretary of the Interior to upgrade existing emergency communications centers in units of the National Park System to Next Generation 9-1-1 systems, and for other purposes.
A bill to direct the Secretary of the Interior to upgrade existing emergency communications centers in units of the National Park System to Next Generation 9-1-1 systems, and for other purposes.

Comments

Raegan Kane profile image

Raegan Kane

938

4 months ago

I'm so excited about this bill making our national parks safer! It's about time we prioritize the safety of visitors and wildlife in these beautiful places. How do you think this will impact tourism and conservation efforts in our national parks?

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