Proposed federal budget cuts raise concerns for GSMNP
Advocates warn staffing shortages could affect safety, maintenance and local tourism
Published: 2:32 PM EDT May 20, 2026
GATLINBURG, Tenn. — As millions of visitors head to the Great Smoky Mountains this summer, park advocates are raising concerns about how proposed federal budget cuts and staffing shortages could affect operations at the nation’s most-visited national park.
The proposed 2027 federal budget includes significant changes for the National Park Service, including a nearly 13% cut to overall Department of the Interior funding, a reduction of more than $2 billion. The proposal also includes new fees for some international visitors at national parks.
The proposed reductions come as visitation to national parks continues to rise, while advocates say staffing levels have struggled to keep pace.
It is estimated the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has lost roughly 35% to 40% of its staff over the past several years.
These cuts not only affect staff employees, the park visitors, but also the land and wildlife. Nearby communities are affected as well.
Please read the entire WBIR article here, and, call your representatives and demand that they fund and support our national treasures.
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