Congresswoman Hageman Discusses Reauthorization of the Great American Outdoors Act at Grand Teton National Park
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Harriet Hageman (WY-AL) joined members of the House Natural Resources Committee for a field hearing on the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA), held at the Jenny Lake Visitor Center in Grand Teton National Park, to discuss the need for reauthorization and meaningful reform in GAOA 2.0.
“Our hearing at Grand Teton National Park highlighted the successes of the Great American Outdoors Act as its authorization nears expiration. The hearing showed that the GAOA has the potential to drive meaningful improvements in infrastructure, public access, and outdoor recreation opportunities, while still implementing much-needed reforms to improve the legislation,” said Congresswoman Hageman. “I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues and local communities to protect these national treasures and support rural economies.”
"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,” said House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.)
Background:
Despite $5.32 billion in funding to the National Park Service since 2021, the deferred maintenance backlog has increased by $10.3 billion, raising concerns about data accuracy, project prioritization, and transparency in spending. During the hearing, the House Natural Resources Committee members heard from experts who are on the ground to help identify the most effective ways to expand public access, modernize park infrastructure, and diversify funding sources, while demanding stronger oversight to ensure taxpayer money is not misused.
###
