HR 5254 · Passed House · 07-29-26
Gateway Partnership Act
What does the Gateway Partnership Act do?
HR 5254 is a House bill sponsored by Rep. Wesley Bell (D-MO-1). This bill lets the National Park Service sign a one-time agreement with the Gateway Arch Park Foundation to hold private events at Gateway Arch National Park, including inside Park buildings like the Arch Visitor Center and the Old Courthouse. The agreement can last up to five years, must include terms protecting the Park, and must charge fees that cover the government's costs.
Did HR 5254 pass? Where it stands
As of August 24, 2026, HR 5254 has passed the House.
Status: Passed House
Latest vote: House Passed by voice vote on March 16, 2026
Outlook: Possible
Key provisions
- Private Events at Gateway Arch
- One-time National Park Service agreement with the Gateway Arch Park Foundation
- Agreement term capped at five years
- Covers the Arch Visitor Center, Old Courthouse, and other public Park buildings
- Cost Recovery and Safeguards
- Secretary must charge fees for event wear-and-tear
- Government may recover all event costs, including security and personnel
- Foundation must carry liability insurance naming the United States
- Limits and Sunset
- Authority sunsets 7 years after enactment
- Events cannot disrupt public access to the Park
- Report to Congress due within 4 years
Last updated July 30, 2026