Forest Service Would Keep Ski Resort Fees to Fund Local Recreation and Safety
Officially: Ski Hill Resources for Economic Development Act
This bill lets the Forest Service keep ski area permit fees instead of sending them to the general federal budget. Most of the money would go back to the forests where it was collected for trail maintenance, visitor safety, and permit processing.
Where it stands
floor_pending
Your representatives are deciding where they stand. A few messages can tip the balance.
- Creates a Ski Area Fee Retention Account in the U.S. Treasury for ski resort permit fees collected on national forest land.
- Ski area permit fees become available for the Forest Service to spend without yearly congressional approval, and the money stays available for four fiscal years.
- Normally 80% of fees collected at a given national forest must be spent at that same forest — 75% on ski program operations and 25% on recreation, safety, and resource work.
↓ Why your message matters here
This bill is moving through Congress right now — your representative needs to hear from you.
The debate
What people are saying about this bill
- Economic Growth: Supporters argue that the bill will stimulate local economies by attracting more tourists and creating jobs.
- Improved Infrastructure: The financial assistance can lead to better facilities and services, enhancing the overall ski experience.
- Environmental Benefits: By promoting eco-friendly practices, the bill ensures that ski area development is sustainable.
- Cost Concerns: Critics worry about the financial burden on taxpayers and question if the funds could be better spent elsewhere.
- Environmental Impact: Some argue that increased development could harm local ecosystems, despite the bill's sustainability provisions.
- Inequality: Opponents fear that the benefits may not be evenly distributed, with larger ski areas gaining more than smaller ones.
Where this bill is in the process
Legislative timeline
Introduced
Introduced in Senate
Senate Committee
Under Senate committee consideration
Senate Floor Vote
Voted on by Senate
Latest: Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 333. (2/11/2026)
Passed Senate
Approved by Senate
House Review
Sent to House for consideration
Passed Both Chambers
Approved by both House and Senate
Signed into Law
Signed by the President
For more detail