On Friday, the House Committee on Natural Resources hosted its third field hearing of the 119th Congress in Grand Teton National Park on the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) in anticipation of America’s 250th anniversary with seven members of Congress attending.

"The Natural Resources Committee is focused on modernizing and maintaining our national parks ahead of America’s 250th birthday next year. The field hearing in Grand Teton National Park gave us a firsthand look at how the Great American Outdoors Act is delivering critical investments to our national parks and where we must improve. I appreciate the opportunity to hear from local stakeholders and see projects completed through the Great American Outdoors Act. These conversations and experiences are crucial to guiding our work reauthorizing and improving this legislation." – House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.)  

"The hearing at Grand Teton National Park highlighted the successes of the Great American Outdoors Act as its authorization nears expiration. Reauthorizing the GAOA will extend its positive impact by modernizing park infrastructure, enhancing visitor experience, expanding public access, and creating new outdoor recreation opportunities. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues and local communities to improve these national treasures and support rural economies." – Congresswoman Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.)

Background

The GAOA, signed into law by President Donald Trump in 2020, invested $1.9 billion annually in our national parks and public lands through federal energy revenues. As its expiration date approaches, reauthorizing and reforming this law is critical to ensure our national parks and public lands are modernized and maintained for future generations. The committee remains committed to making sure GAOA funding is used responsibly and effectively. 

During the field hearing, members heard directly from National Park Service officials, small business owners and other local partners about how GAOA has been used for critical park repairs, as well as the importance of our national parks and public lands to local economies. Before the hearing, members visited Granite Canyon Trailhead, Moose-Wilson Road, and an equestrian area to view GAOA funded projects.