Tourism

The National Park Service’s Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) program—required for operators conducting business in parks—creates a patchwork of duplicative fees, permits, and reporting standards that vary from park to park. These inconsistencies add significant administrative and financial burdens for motorcoach operators.

For group tour companies serving multiple parks, the process can delay access, increase costs, and reduce service availability—especially for student and senior groups.

ABA is advocating for a single, standardized CUA valid across all parks, along with simplified reporting requirements, to ensure equitable, efficient access for all.

Motorcoaches are a critical connector between travelers and America’s iconic natural landmarks. Yet, shifting policies around vehicle access, parking, and emissions creates uncertainty for operators and limits travel opportunities for domestic and international visitors.

Restrictions on access to public lands—without clear accommodation for group travel—threaten tourism revenue in gateway communities and reduce accessibility for those who rely on motorcoach travel.

ABA supports legislation that protects national parks while ensuring fair, predictable access for motorcoach operators and the communities they serve.

The Visa Integrity Fee and similar proposed surcharges would significantly increase the cost of visiting the U.S.—potentially deterring nearly 3 million international travelers and costing the U.S. economy an estimated $9 billion over several years.

These additional costs affect not only travelers but also tour operators, hotels, attractions, and local economies that rely on global tourism.

ABA supports streamlined, secure visa policies that balance national security with economic opportunity, ensuring the U.S. remains a top destination for group travel.