Fulcher Introduces Bill Expanding Free Access to National Parks for Foster Families

 Subscribe For Newsletter Updates! $ About Biography Idaho’s First District Committee and Caucus Memberships Official Photos Contact Help with a Federal Agency Email Me Newsletter Sign-Up Request a Meeting Website Problem Legislation Issues Letters Newsroom Press Releases In the News Videos Services Commendations and Greetings Congressional App Challenge Congressional Art Competition Congressional Award Program Community Resources Flag Requests Help with a Federal Agency Internships Service Academy Nominations Tour Request Veterans History Project Veterans Resources Follow Follow Follow Follow Fulcher Introduces Bill Expanding Free Access to National Parks for Foster Families Home Uncategorized Fulcher Introduces Bill Expanding Free Access to National Parks for Foster Families Jun 15, 2026 WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) released the following statement after introducing the Promoting Access to Recreation for Kids in Foster Settings (PARKS) Act, H.R. 9145. The legislation would add licensed foster care families to the list of those who can access America the Beautiful passes free of charge. “I’m delighted to introduce the PARKS Act. America is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, many of which are part of the National Parks System. Lifting the fee for foster care children to access these natural wonders—particularly as we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday this year—would provide them with immense benefits, such as enhanced educational resources and improved school readiness,” said Congressman Fulcher. The PARKS Act seeks to promote healthy and active lifestyles, family outdoor activities, and improved mental health. Additionally, because many National Parks and other federal lands incorporate educational signage, foster children have expanded opportunities to learn more about the natural world. Bill Background In 2024, the latest year for which there is data, there were over 320,000 children in foster care. These are children who have experienced difficult family circumstances and may be struggling. A preponderance of evidence has shown that access to the outdoors can benefit children’s physical and mental health, concentration, and school readiness. The PARKS Act would add licensed foster care families to the list of those who can access America the Beautiful passes free of charge, removing the financial barrier for foster children to access federal lands. ### Office Locations Washington D.C. Office 1514 Longworth HOB Washington, DC 20515 (202) 225-6611 Meridian Office 33 East Broadway Avenue, Suite 251 Meridian, ID 83642 Phone: (208) 888-3188 Fax: (208) 888-0894 Lewiston Office 313 D Street, Suite 107 Lewiston, ID 83501 Phone: (208) 743-1388 Coeur d’Alene Office 1250 West Ironwood Drive, Suite 200 Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814 Phone: (208) 667-0127 Fax: (208) 667-0310 Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | House.gov Follow Follow Follow Follow