House Passes Walberg’s Legislation to Increase Access to National Parks

Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) released the following statement after the House passed his legislation, the America the Beautiful Motorcycle Fairness Act, yesterday. The legislation would amend the Federal Recreation Land Enhancement Act to require the Secretary of the Interior to issue guidance stating that one America the Beautiful Annual Pass will permit the admittance of two motorcycles into national parks.

"As a lifelong motorcycle rider, I've experienced firsthand the joys of riding on two wheels through our scenic national parks," said Rep. Walberg. "As America celebrates its 250th birthday, the America the Beautiful Motorcycle Fairness Act will ensure that motorcycle enthusiasts from across the country have fair access to our national parks and public lands. By ensuring parity for riders, we will strengthen the local economies that depend on tourism and allow our fellow Americans to explore the open roads of our historic landmarks on two wheels."

"The American Motorcyclist Association applauds Representative Walberg and the U.S. House of Representatives for their swift action to reinstate the two-motorcycle-per-pass policy," said AMA Board Chair Tom Umphress. "This legislation is especially meaningful as we celebrate America 250 and recognize our National Parks as some of the most cherished destinations for riders. Motorcycling is a fundamental part of our culture symbolizing independence, freedom, and the American spirit. We look forward to building on this success and continuing to defend the rights of motorcyclists and the motorcycling lifestyle."

Background

Previously, the America the Beautiful Annual Pass allowed for two individuals to share the benefits. However, in 2024, this policy was revised to allow only one individual to be listed on the pass, thereby eliminating the option for two motorcyclists to share the same pass. While in many locations the annual pass permits entrance for the pass owner and up to three passengers in a private vehicle, and the pass owner and up to three bicyclists, the annual pass only permits entrance for one motorcycle with up to two passengers. As a result, two riders traveling together on separate motorcycles could no longer use one annual pass for admission.

In November 2025, President Trump and Interior Secretary Burgum reversed this decision, announcing that the America the Beautiful pass would once again allow entry for two bikes per pass. The America the Beautiful Motorcycle Fairness Act would codify this policy, providing certainty for riders.