Visitors to popular national parks in the United States may experience new questioning regarding their citizenship status. Following a directive from the National Park Service (NPS), employees at 11 major parks are now required to inquire if visitors are U.S. citizens or residents.
New Citizenship Questions at National Parks
The directive specifies that park staff should ask, “How many people visiting are not U.S. citizens or residents?” However, identification checks for every visitor are not mandatory. This change has come to light after an executive order from the previous administration raised entrance fees for non-U.S. citizens at many popular parks.
Parks Affected by the New Fee Structure
- Acadia National Park
- Bryce Canyon National Park
- Everglades National Park
- Glacier National Park
- Grand Canyon National Park
- Grand Teton National Park
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
- Yellowstone National Park
- Yosemite National Park
- Zion National Park
As part of the new fee structure, non-residents over the age of 16 are now subject to an additional $100 surcharge. Furthermore, the America the Beautiful pass required for park access has increased in cost. Non-residents must now pay an extra $170, while U.S. residents pay $80 for the same pass.
Concerns Over the New Policy
Experts have raised concerns that this policy may create a discomforting atmosphere for visitors. Mneesha Gellman, a political scientist at Emerson College, suggests it could potentially deter visitors based on their perceived identities.
According to the NPS, all purchasers of the America the Beautiful Annual Pass must provide proof of U.S. citizenship or residency. Digital pass holders must also present valid photo identification upon entry. This practice may pose challenges, as NPS staff might not be equipped to navigate the varied immigration statuses in the country.
Ultimately, the implementation of additional questions could prolong wait times at park entrances, compounding existing staffing shortages within the already stretched NPS.
