Scenic America applauds the introduction of the bipartisan America the Beautiful Act, legislation that would extend and strengthen the Legacy Restoration Fund established by the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA). Originally enacted in 2020 in the first Trump administration, the GAOA has already facilitated the completion or initiation of over 1,500 infrastructure repair projects across our national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, and public lands, addressing more than $7 billion in deferred maintenance needs, and supporting thousands of American jobs.

The bipartisan America the Beautiful Act, originally introduced and sponsored by Senators Steve Daines (R-MT), Angus King (I-ME), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mark Warner (D-VA), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), builds on this momentum by extending the Fund through 2033 and increasing annual investments to $2 billion. These funds are essential for repairing crumbling roads, trails, water systems, and visitor facilities—investments that both enhance public enjoyment and protect the scenic, historic, and cultural integrity of these treasured landscapes.

“This legislation is a clear recognition that America’s public lands are a vital part of our national identity and must be maintained for future generations,” said Scenic America President Mark Falzone. “Our national parks and public lands are cornerstones of our scenic heritage. Continued investment in their upkeep not only preserves their beauty but strengthens the economies of gateway communities and ensures the safety and experience of millions of visitors each year.”

Scenic America is especially encouraged by the Act’s provisions to increase transparency and planning through two-year project lists, improve public-private partnership opportunities, and ensure strategic project prioritization. These enhancements will expand the reach of federal dollars, bolster civic engagement, and ensure efficient stewardship of our public lands.

We urge Congress to act swiftly to pass the America the Beautiful Act and secure a scenic, accessible, and well-maintained public lands system for generations to come.