Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB4561

Introduced
7/11/23  

Caption

Reducing Waste in National Parks Act

Impact

The bill outlines a framework for addressing the environmental concerns associated with plastic waste in national parks. It requires every regional director to consider various factors, including operational costs, contract implications with concessioners, infrastructure for refill stations, and visitor education strategies when implementing the reduction plan. By prioritizing the evaluation of costs and environmental benefits, supporters believe this bill could significantly decrease waste and enhance the ecological integrity of national parks.

Summary

House Bill 4561, known as the 'Reducing Waste in National Parks Act', is aimed at minimizing the use of disposable plastic products within the National Park System. The bill mandates the establishment of a program to reduce and potentially eliminate the sale of single-use plastic items, specifically bottles and other disposable products, at park units. This initiative is expected to be implemented within 180 days of enactment and will be overseen by regional directors of the National Park Service.

Contention

While the bill's intent is broadly supported, it does raise points of contention, particularly regarding the implications for concessioners. There are concerns from some stakeholders about how the elimination of disposable products may affect sales revenues for park concessioners and the logistical challenges in providing alternative solutions, such as refill stations for water. Additionally, the bill places a strong emphasis on visitor education about water availability, which may require increased resources and planning to ensure safety without access to plastic bottles.

Companion Bills

US SB2728

Same As Reducing Waste in National Parks Act

Previously Filed As

US SB2728

Reducing Waste in National Parks Act

US HB3604

Reducing Waste in National Parks Act

US SB1926

Reducing Waste in National Parks Act

US HB5045

Chesapeake National Recreation Area Act

US HB519

Yosemite National Park Equal Access and Fairness Act

US SB2620

Chesapeake National Recreation Area Act

US HB4052

National Infrastructure Bank Act of 2023

US HB5089

Reducing Regulatory Burdens Act of 2023

US HB4801

HONEST Enterprise Act Honoring Organizations Nationally for Ethics, Sustainability, and Trust Act

US HB5025

National Office of New Americans Act

Similar Bills

CA AB2557

Corporations: directors.

CA AB591

Central Basin Municipal Water District: board of directors.

CA SB387

Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency: board of directors.

CA AB1225

State parks: Accessibility Advisory Committee.

DE HB243

An Act To Amend Titles 16, 24, And 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Department Of Health And Social Services.

CO HB1447

Transit Reform

HI SB2685

Relating To Planned Community Associations.

HI HB1781

Relating To Planned Community Associations.