Safari Club International (SCI) commends Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-CA) for advancing bipartisan legislation that invests $1.9 billion in America's national parks and public lands over the next five years—without imposing new costs on American taxpayers.
As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, this initiative represents a critical step toward strengthening conservation, expanding outdoor access, and supporting the economic vitality of rural communities that depend on outdoor recreation.
The legislation is projected to create approximately 72,500 jobs and generate $26.4 billion in economic activity for gateway communities. It will modernize and expand recreation infrastructure, address long-overdue maintenance backlogs, and reinforce the $1.3 trillion outdoor recreation economy.
"This bipartisan legislation is a true win for hunters and our nation's outdoor traditions. It brings people together across party lines to protect access and strengthen conservation efforts so future generations can enjoy responsible hunting," said W. Laird Hamberlin, CEO of Safari Club International.
"Just as importantly, it supports jobs and drives much-needed revenue in rural communities while protecting the very lands that outdoor recreation depends on. SCI is proud to support a measure that unites us around our shared commitment to preserving our outdoor heritage."
Funded through foreign visitor fees, private donations, and onshore energy revenues, the proposal restores and enhances critical infrastructure, including campgrounds, trails, boat ramps, and hunting and fishing access. These improvements will directly benefit America's sportsmen and women, ensuring high-quality outdoor experiences for generations to come.
The legislation also prioritizes accountability and transparency, streamlines project delivery, and focuses on high-priority maintenance needs—without expanding federal land holdings.
SCI emphasizes that maintaining and improving access to public lands is essential to preserving America's outdoor traditions and sustaining conservation funding driven by sportsmen and women.
As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, this bipartisan effort reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding the nation's natural heritage while promoting access, conservation, and economic opportunity.