NTA supports tour operators in America the Beautiful legislation

June 23, 2026

The U.S. House and Senate Natural Resources committees are moving fast to finalize the America the Beautiful Act and have it signed into law by July 1. The good news is that this legislation will help fund much needed infrastructure repairs for the U.S. national parks.

Unfortunately, the proposed legislation also includes the surcharge for international visitors. Industry pushback and advocacy efforts have resulted in the Senate’s version proposing that the amount of this surcharge will be determined by the Secretary of Interior with input from the public. This is a step in the right direction but more work remains to be done.

NTA collaborated with the International Inbound Travel Association on draft language that also would require the Secretary to consult with tour operators in determining this fee. NTA remains hopeful that the draft language will be incorporated into the final product.