From Preservation Action:

In recent weeks the Trump administration has announced mass layoffs at the National Park Service (NPS) and other federal agencies, impacting historic and cultural sites across the country ahead of the busy summer travel season. NPS manages National Parks, most National Monuments and numerous historic properties across the country. 

Last month the NPS fired more than 1,000 employees that were on a probationary status, per a directive from the Office of Personnel Management (OMB). The legality of these government wide firings of probationary employees are being challenged in court with two U.S. judges recently ordering many of these employees to be reinstated. The administration is expected to appeal these rulings. Also this week, it was reported that the administration is eyeing a 30% payroll reduction at NPS. Additionally, 34 NPS leases have been scheduled for termination, including field offices, visitor centers, and other facilities. All of this is happening as National Parks have received record visitation.

NPS, in addition to being responsible for safeguarding many historic and cultural sites across, is also critical in carrying out our federal historic preservation program. Before these mass layoffs NPS was already understaffed, operating with 20% fewer staff than it did 15 years ago. Appropriate staffing is vital to protect our heritage.

We urge you to join us in taking action by reaching out to your Representative and Senators and letting them know that you support much-needed staff at the National Park Service and other agencies that steward our historic and cultural sites. Our friends at the National Park Conservation Association have made it easy to you to send a letter to your members of Congress. Take action today!