Celeste Maloy: “Americans are preparing to celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States in 2026. How do you properly celebrate 250…”

“Americans are preparing to celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States in 2026. How do you properly celebrate 250 years of freedom? One very uniquely American way is to spend time in what Wallace Stegner called ``the best idea we ever had,'' our national parks. National parks provide our connection to history, nature, and shared heritage, including our bright future as a nation. The Semiquincentennial Tourism and Access to Recreation Sites Act, which doesn't exactly roll off the tongue, so we call it the STARS Act, designates Constitution Day, September 17, 2026, as a fee-free day at National Park Service sites and extends fee waivers to Federal lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management, the Fish and Wildlife Service, the Bureau of Reclamation, and the United States Forest Service. This allows Americans to experience our national history, natural treasures, and natural resources that preserve and protect the legacy that began in 1776. This legislation is complementary to the Department of the Interior's effort to launch the digital America the Beautiful passes, expand motorcycle access, create a resident-focused fee structure, and otherwise improve the experience for Americans. The STARS Act highlights Constitution Day to encourage reflection on America's founding principles. Get out and enjoy this Nation's natural resources, learn something new, or just celebrate with loved ones in one of our parks.”