National Parks Adjust to New Regulations on Retail Products

America’s national parks are making changes to the products they offer for sale as the Trump administration intensifies its focus on reducing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts.

A memo from the Department of the Interior, dated November 25, emphasizes this initiative. Executive Order 3416, issued by Doug Burgum, instructs the National Park Service (NPS) to align with President Trump’s directive to eliminate programs related to diversity.

National parks have until December 19 to ensure that all retail items meet these new compliance standards.

New Park Passes and Fee Adjustments

This move follows an executive order titled “Ending DEI Programs and Gender Ideological Extremism.” An Interior Department representative stated that the NPS is currently reviewing its merchandise to adhere to the order.

The spokesperson mentioned, “The aim is to keep national parks focused on their main goal: preserving natural and cultural resources for the benefit of all Americans.” If any item does not align with this directive, it will be removed from store shelves.

Products sold in these shops are deemed “public content” and must comply with the new order. Should any product be labeled as “nonconforming,” it has to be taken off the market promptly, according to the memo.

Many NPS gift shops can be found at visitor centers in larger parks, while others are located in more remote parks. Typically, these shops are run by nonprofit partners of the NPS, and their revenues support visitors and the park’s maintenance.

Interestingly, more than 330 million individuals visited America’s national parks in 2024, reflecting their enduring appeal.

Additionally, the Interior Department has rolled out the America the Beautiful Pass. This digital and physical pass aims to facilitate access to some of the nation’s most cherished natural sites, promoting a focus on American families. Starting January 1, 2026, new resident rates will be available.

Americans can buy an annual pass for $80, while seniors can obtain one for just $20 or secure a lifetime pass for $80. Free passes are also provided to military personnel, veterans, and individuals with permanent disabilities, along with a free pass for every fourth grader in the U.S. through the Every Kid Outdoors program.