Bills/S. 290

Making National Parks Safer Act

Making National Parks Safer Act

In CommitteeEnvironmentSenateSenate Bill · 119th Congress
Bill Progress · Senate
Introduced
Committee
Passed House
Passed Senate
Passed Both
Signed

Plain Language Summary

# Making National Parks Safer Act - Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would require the National Park Service to upgrade 911 emergency systems in national parks to a newer technology called Next Generation 911 (NG911). NG911 systems are modern, internet-based emergency communication networks that can handle digital information more reliably than traditional systems. The bill directs the NPS to first assess which parks have these systems, how much they cost to install, and then create a plan to roll out NG911 across all national park emergency centers. **Who It Affects** This would primarily benefit park visitors and staff who need emergency services in national parks, as well as park rangers and emergency responders who would have access to more advanced communication tools.

Taxpayers would also be affected, as the bill would likely require government funding to implement these upgrades. **Current Status** The bill (S 290) was introduced in the 119th Congress by Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. The bill has not advanced beyond the initial committee review stage.

CRS Official Summary

Making National Parks Safer ActThis bill directs the National Park Service (NPS) to develop a plan to install Next Generation 911 (NG911) systems, which are certain interoperable, digital, and secure Internet Protocol-based systems for receiving 9-1-1 calls. Specifically, the NPS must assess the implementation status and estimated costs of such NG911 systems at existing emergency communications centers in NPS units. The NPS must also develop a plan, based on the assessment, to install NG911 systems at centers.

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Latest Action

February 4, 2026

Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Ordered to be reported without amendment favorably.

Subjects

Congressional oversightEmergency communications systemsGovernment studies and investigationsParks, recreation areas, trails

Sponsor

R
Barrasso, John [R-WY]
R-WY · Senate
3 cosponsors

Key Dates

Introduced
January 29, 2025
Last Updated
February 4, 2026
Read Full Text on Congress.gov →
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