In late 2025, the Department of the Interior released its no-fee schedule for 2026, omitting Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth from the federal holidays when entrance fees are waived at National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Refuge sites. In response, U.S. Representatives Ritchie Torres and Yvette Clarke introduced H.R. 6603, the Our Parks Act, to ensure entrance fees are waived on all federal holidays, including MLK Day and Juneteenth—helping keep public lands accessible to all communities.

Landscape architects play a key role in planning, designing, and stewarding parks, wildlife refugees, and public landscapes nationwide. By removing cost barriers on federal holidays, the Our Parks Act supports equitable access, strong visitor experiences, and the long-term stewardship of these shared public spaces.

Take action today. Urge your Members of Congress to cosponsor H.R. 6603 and help ensure parks and refuges remain welcoming, accessible, and equitable for all.