Prohibit Partisan Park Passes Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Merkley, Jeff [D-OR]
- Committees
- Energy and Natural Resources Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jan 29, 2026
Bottom line
This bill seeks to depoliticize the design of national park passes by preventing the depiction of living political figures, reinforcing the non-partisan nature of federal lands.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act to explicitly prohibit the use of images of any living current or former elected official or other living political figure on the America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass. It aims to ensure that the design of these passes remains non-partisan.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this bill promotes non-partisanship in national park branding, ensuring that federal lands and their associated products remain free from political endorsement or personality cults. This fosters a sense of national unity and appreciation for natural heritage rather than individual politicians, preventing potential controversies over pass imagery.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that such a prohibition is an unnecessary legislative intervention for a hypothetical problem, as national park passes traditionally feature natural landscapes or wildlife. They might contend it is overly restrictive, potentially limiting artistic freedom or the ability to honor significant figures who have contributed to conservation efforts, even if such an honor is broadly supported.
The bill is extremely short and clear, requiring minimal time to understand its provisions and implications.
Section 2
Restriction on Images for National Parks Pass
This section amends the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act by adding a new clause that explicitly prohibits the inclusion of any living current or former elected official or other living political figure on the America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass. This measure ensures that the visual design of these federal passes remains focused on natural beauty, historical significance, or other non-political themes.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision maintains the non-political nature of national parks and federal lands, preventing the passes from becoming a platform for political endorsement or personal glorification. It ensures the focus remains on the natural and cultural heritage these passes represent, fostering a sense of shared national ownership.
Critics contend
No widespread organized opposition is typically raised against this specific provision, as it is generally seen as a non-controversial measure to uphold the integrity of national symbols. However, some might argue it is an unnecessary legislative intervention for a hypothetical problem, as current pass designs already avoid such imagery.
Tradeoffs
The primary tension, if any, is between the desire for absolute political neutrality in federal branding and the potential for a future scenario where a political figure might be widely recognized for significant contributions to conservation, and a broad consensus might wish to honor them on such a pass (though this bill prevents that while they are living).