H.R. 6342: Military and Veterans in Parks Act
Introduction:
H.R. 6342, known as the “Military and Veterans in Parks Act,” is a proposed bill in the United States House of Representatives that aims to support military personnel and veterans through various initiatives related to national parks.
Purpose:
The bill recognizes the significant contributions of military members and veterans and seeks to provide them with opportunities to connect with nature, learn about history, and enjoy the benefits of national parks.
Key Provisions:
1. Park Access for Military and Veteran Families:
- Provides free lifetime entrance passes to national parks for military service members and veterans who have a service-related disability.
- Extends the Every Kid Outdoors program to provide free annual passes to all active and honorably discharged veterans.
2. Veteran Employment:
- Creates a pilot program to hire veterans as rangers and other staff at national parks.
- Provides training and support to veterans entering the park ranger workforce.
3. Historic Preservation:
- Establishes a “Military and Veterans Historical Sites Fund” to support the preservation of historically significant military sites within national parks.
- Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to designate military and veterans historical sites and provide funding for their maintenance.
4. Outdoor Recreation Opportunities:
- Expands educational programs and activities at national parks that focus on military history and the role of veterans in conservation.
- Provides grants to non-profit organizations that offer outdoor recreation opportunities for military members and veterans with disabilities.
5. Mental Health Support:
- Creates a pilot program to provide mental health services to military members and veterans in national parks through partnerships with organizations specializing in veteran support.
- Establishes a “Veterans in Parks Fund” to support these mental health initiatives.
Status:
H.R. 6342 was introduced on June 7, 2022, by Representative Jimmy Panetta (D-CA). It has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources and is currently in committee review.
Support and Opposition:
The bill has received support from veteran organizations, conservation groups, and elected officials. Some opponents have expressed concerns about the cost of the bill and its potential impact on park operations.
Conclusion:
H.R. 6342 is a comprehensive bill aimed at supporting military personnel and veterans through a variety of initiatives related to national parks. If passed by Congress and signed into law, it would provide significant benefits to those who have served in the United States military.
H.R. 6342 (RH) – Military and Veterans in Parks Act
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