Tennessee House Bill HJR0017

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/23
• Refer: 1/10/23

Caption

A RESOLUTION to urge the U.S. Department of the Interior to provide additional funding to Great Smoky Mountains National Park based upon the number of its annual visitors.

Impact

If adopted, this resolution would not alter state laws directly but would emphasize the need for increased federal support for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park based on its high visitor numbers. Proponents of the resolution argue that a funding structure that reflects visitor levels is essential for managing park resources adequately and ensuring visitor safety and satisfaction. The resolution stresses the importance of addressing the potential shortfall in funds amid rising operational costs.

Summary

House Joint Resolution 17 (HJR0017) urges the U.S. Department of the Interior to reassess and enhance the funding formula for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This park has consistently ranked as the most visited national park in the United States, welcoming over 14.1 million recreational visitors in 2021. The resolution highlights the financial pressures resulting from maintaining park facilities and managing its expansive wilderness, which spans over 522,419 acres across two states. It is positioned as a call to action to safeguard this vital national resource for future generations.

Contention

While HJR0017 aims to advocate for increased funding, there may arise concerns regarding federal budget allocations and priorities among lawmakers. Opponents might argue that focusing on visitor numbers could lead to disproportionate funding that might neglect other parks or similar recreational areas requiring attention. Furthermore, discussions surrounding the distribution of federal funds to national parks can often elicit a range of opinions on the best methodology for equitably addressing maintenance and operational needs across different park systems.