S. 2308: Protecting America’s Treasures by Raising Inflow from Overseas Tourists Parks Act

This bill, titled the "Protecting America’s Treasures by Raising Inflow from Overseas Tourists Parks Act," proposes amendments to the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act. Its primary purpose is to allow the Secretary of the Interior to collect a surcharge from international visitors when they enter units of the National Park System.

Key Provisions

• Definition of International Visitor: The bill defines an "international visitor" as a nonimmigrant individual permitted entry into the United States under specific sections of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
• Entrance Fee Surcharge: The Secretary can authorize national park superintendents to establish a surcharge on top of existing entrance fees for international visitors. The surcharge amount is to be set by the superintendents with the aim of maximizing revenue while still attracting visitors.
• Collection Methods: The surcharge may be collected directly by the Secretary or through agreements with third-party travel vendors.
• Surcharge Administration: The Secretary has the authority to suspend, modify, or increase the surcharge based on various factors, including park visitation levels.
• Use of Proceeds: Revenue generated from the surcharge will go directly to the specific national park where it was collected. These funds are intended for maintenance, staffing, visitor services, and other related needs of the park.
• Recreation Pass Surcharge: A surcharge will also be established for international visitors purchasing National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Passes, with similar provisions for the proceeds.

Implications

The bill aims to enhance funding for national parks by taking advantage of international tourism. It is likely to simultaneously address maintenance and service needs within the parks. The implementation of surcharges could potentially affect visitor numbers, balancing revenue generation with visitor access and experience.

Relevant Companies

• CCL: Carnival Corporation, as a cruise line operator, typically promotes travel to various destinations, including national parks, and may see an impact on their packages due to these new fees.
• NCLH: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings may also be affected similarly, as international tourists often include national park visits while on cruise itineraries.
• AIR: Air Canada could be impacted as fees might influence travel plans of international tourists who typically visit national parks in conjunction with flights to the U.S.