The executive order increasing entry fees for foreign tourists at national parks raises valid concerns about implementing it fairly and without unfairly targeting or burdening U.S. citizens. Charging differential fees based on citizenship status will require a system to verify residency or citizenship status upon entry. Developing such a system raises questions about privacy, potential racial profiling, and the threat of immigration enforcement overreach at public lands meant for all people to enjoy. There are also logistical challenges in updating ticketing and entry procedures across hundreds of national park sites. While generating revenue for infrastructure improvements is a worthy goal, the proposed fee increase demands careful consideration of its unintended consequences and potential to undermine equal access to public lands. I urge a thorough review and public input process before implementing any policies that could enable discrimination, deter visitors, or turn park rangers into de facto immigration agents. National parks belong to all Americans regardless of background. Any solutions should enhance, not diminish, their unifying role as spaces for recreation, respite and celebrating our natural heritage.
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