NPCA submitted the following positions to members of the House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Federal Lands ahead of a hearing scheduled for December 2, 2025.
H.R. 4931 - National Park System Long-Term Lease Investment Act: NPCA opposes this bill which allows the Director of the National Park Service (NPS), under the authority of the Secretary of the Interior, to extend some leases without fair market rent consideration. NPS leases over 340 structures in parks throughout the National Park System for commercial, residential and non-profit uses that are consistent with the park’s purpose. Fair market value rent ensures the National Park Service secures the highest and best permitted use for the leased structures.
H.R. 5063 - Safe Beaches, Safe Swimmers Act: NPCA appreciates the intent behind this legislation to ensure visitor safety at national seashores, and we recognize the challenges some park units face in hiring seasonal staff. However, our strong preference is for the National Park Service to retain the authority and capacity to hire and manage lifeguard staff directly. For many parks, NPS-hired lifeguards remain the model that best supports park operations, coordination with local partners, and the quality and consistency of visitor safety services.
