America the Beautiful Act (S-1547) · Congress.wiki

America the Beautiful Act (S-1547) · Congress.wiki

This bill keeps the fund that fixes aging buildings, roads, trails, and other facilities in national parks and other public lands going. It updates how much money can go into the fund, expands where the money can be used, and sets rules to get more projects done faster. For example, projects on land run by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are clearly included, not just those inside the National Wildlife Refuge System . Agencies are told to put first the projects that bring at least 15% of their costs from donations, stretching taxpayer dollars further . If Congress hasn’t passed full-year spending bills, the President can move forward with previously approved allocations so work doesn’t stall .

The bill also makes it easier for the public to donate and see where their money goes. It calls for donation info at project sites, online, and even during checkout when buying federal recreation passes. Cash donations go into the fund and can be aimed at specific listed projects . Agencies must remove facilities that no longer serve the public and report within one year on steps to cut maintenance backlogs without using this fund, plus share a plan to boost routine maintenance so problems don’t pile up again .

Who is affected: Park visitors, local communities near public lands, and agencies that manage parks, forests, wildlife areas, and certain Indian Education school facilities .
What changes:
- Updates the amount deposited into the repair fund and continues the program .
- Prioritizes projects with at least 15% in private donations .
- Allows and promotes public donations; donations are credited to the fund and can be directed to listed projects .
- Lets the President allocate previously approved funds if annual appropriations are delayed .
- Requires removal of outdated assets and a one-year report with a plan to prevent future backlogs .
When: The reporting requirements start within one year after the law takes effect; other provisions guide ongoing funding and project choices .