Pulaski Times

U.S. Senators John Boozman and Martin Heinrich have introduced the Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act. This legislation aims to extend free access to national parks and other public lands for all American fourth graders and their families until 2031.

"Introducing young Americans to our national parks inspires an appreciation for the lands and resources that help define our country. I’m proud to support this legislation that allows the next generation to discover our national treasures and explore the outdoors," said Boozman.

"As a father and a former outdoor educator, I know firsthand how much of a difference getting outside can make for our kids," said Heinrich, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. "I’m so proud of the doors we have opened to our public lands for fourth graders and their families since we passed my Every Kid Outdoors Act into law five years ago. Now, we can double down on this successful program, turning our national parks and other public lands into outdoor classrooms with endless opportunities for children to learn and families to make new memories."

Since 2015, the U.S. Department of the Interior has provided free entrance to all federally managed public lands for fourth graders and their families. The current authorization is set to expire in 2026.

The Every Kid Outdoors program has successfully encouraged tens of thousands of children and their families to explore America's public lands, waters, historic sites, and national parks – over 2,000 sites in total.

The proposed extension has received widespread support from organizations such as The Wilderness Society, Sierra Club, and Outdoor Alliance for Kids.

"Over the past nine years, hundreds of thousands of children have been able to enjoy our public lands with the support of the Every Kid Outdoors program. This program has helped to introduce and facilitate outdoors adventures and experiences to these children and their families during a critical formative period in their lives. The Outdoors Alliance for Kids is eager to see this program continue to benefit families and communities for generations to come," said Julia Hurwit, Campaign Manager for Outdoors Alliance for Kids.