Congressman criticizes cuts to National Park Service budget for 2025

The U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources held a meeting on June 16, 2025, where significant concerns were raised regarding the proposed budget cuts to the National Park Service (NPS). The discussion highlighted a proposed 37% reduction in funding, which has sparked outrage among committee members who view it as detrimental to one of America's most cherished assets.

During the meeting, a committee member expressed disappointment with the budget justification provided for the NPS, emphasizing that the cuts would exacerbate existing staffing shortages. The member pointed out that the NPS has been historically underfunded, and the proposed cuts would further strain its ability to manage and maintain national parks effectively.

Data presented during the meeting illustrated a troubling trend: while visitation to national parks has steadily increased since 2010, staffing levels have not kept pace. The disparity between the growing number of visitors and the declining staff levels was underscored as a critical issue that could lead to diminished visitor experiences and increased strain on park resources.

The committee member criticized the decision to cut $1.2 billion from the NPS budget, arguing that such a reduction is not only irresponsible but also trivial in the context of the overall federal budget. To emphasize the minimal impact of this cut relative to the federal budget, the member likened the reduction to the combined height of two credit cards when compared to the size of the entire budget.

The meeting concluded with a call for reconsideration of the proposed cuts, highlighting the importance of adequately funding the National Park Service to preserve America's natural treasures for future generations. The committee's discussions reflect a growing concern about the sustainability of national parks amid increasing visitor numbers and limited resources.