Protecting America’s Treasures by Raising Inflow from Overseas Tourists (PATRIOT) Parks Act

The "Protecting America's Treasures by Raising Inflow from Overseas Tourists (PATRIOT) Parks Act" amends the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act to introduce new surcharges for international visitors to units of the National Park System, aiming to generate additional revenue from non-immigrant tourists. These surcharges apply to both standard entrance fees and the purchase of National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Passes. For units charging an entrance fee, the Secretary of the Interior may authorize, or must on request from a park superintendent, establish a surcharge for international visitors. The superintendent determines the surcharge amount, aiming to maximize revenue while maintaining visitation levels. These funds are collected by the Secretary or through third-party travel vendors and are specifically designated to be retained by the collecting park unit for maintenance, visitor services, staffing, and other operational needs. Exceptions include the Washington Monument and certain International Peace Parks for specific foreign nationals. Additionally, the bill mandates the Secretary to establish a surcharge on the sale of National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Passes to international visitors. Proceeds from this pass surcharge will be deposited into the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund . This dual approach ensures that international visitor contributions support both individual park needs and broader national park infrastructure projects.