Press Releases

Rep. Celeste Maloy (UT-02) introduced the Semiquincentennial Tourism and Access to Recreation Sites (STARS) Act directing the Secretary of the Interior to designate Constitution Day as an entrance-fee free day at National Park Service sites in 2026 in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States.

The STARS Act encourages Americans to connect with the nation’s history and natural beauty by making our national parks more accessible. The legislation highlights the role of public lands in telling America’s story and honors the legacy of freedom, resilience, and patriotism that began in 1776.

“How do you properly celebrate 250 years of freedom?  Maybe the best way is to spend time in what Wallace Stegner called ‘the best idea we ever had’— our national parks. The STARS Act grants Americans access on Constitution Day next year,” said Rep. Maloy.

The National Park Service manages over 400 sites across the United States, including historic battlefields, monuments, and cultural landmarks. Designating an entrance-fee free day in 2026 allows families and communities to celebrate this monumental milestone with greater access to these treasured places.

Read the full text of the legislation here.