Park Takeover Bill Fails

In case of another government shutdown, don’t look for the state of Wyoming to take over and run the national parks as proposed by some in the legislature. The bill, passed by the Senate last week, would have allowed Wyoming to take over operation of Yellowstone National Park and other federal facilities during a federal government shutdown, but was killed by the House Minerals, Business and Economic Development Committee. Opponents to the measure questioned its constitutionality and criticized its vague language. Under the proposal, the Wyoming governor would have been authorized to spend up to $500,000 to operate any national park or other federal facility, except military installations, within the state’s borders in the event of a shutdown. Lawmakers fear how a shutdown during tourist season here would affect the state’s economy.

Jackson Hole Radio