Walberg Introduces Legislation to Support Motorcyclists Visiting National Parks

Today, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) introduced the America the Beautiful Motorcycle Fairness Act to alleviate an unfair financial burden placed on motorcyclists visiting national parks. 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 an avid motorcycle rider myself, I understand there is no better way to immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery and fresh air of our great national parks, then on two wheels," said Rep. Walberg. "Unfortunately, a 2024 policy change has penalized motorcyclists by treating motorcycles as a vehicle for the purpose of entrance fees. My legislation would correct this unfair financial burden, ensuring that riders can continue to enjoy the open roads of our national parks." 

“The AMA welcomes this new legislation and thanks Representative Walberg for his work on behalf of motorcyclists," said the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA). "This bill would reinstate the two-motorcycle entry provision that was removed from the America the Beautiful Pass in 2024 and restore parity. It recognizes and encourages riders to visit and enjoy federal recreation lands and our extraordinary national parks.”

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 can no longer use one annual pass for admission. 

Congressman Walberg serves as a chair of the Congressional Motorcycle Caucus and as a member of the House Committee on Natural Resources. For more information on his work in Congress, visit Walberg.house.gov. 

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