AI-assisted analysis based on the official CRS summary. Source version: Feb 26, 2026. Analysis updated: Sep 19, 2026.
01 — The Text
What.
- Directs Department of the Interior to issue a right-of-way through the Blue Ridge Parkway for an emergency exit from Wintergreen in Nelson County, Virginia
- Requires Interior to evaluate alternatives that do not cross federal land, including converting existing trails to roads
- Requires analysis of fire ecology behavior expected during a fire emergency with respect to the proposed right-of-way
- Requires completion of reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act and the National Historic Preservation Act
- Authorization is conditional on Interior reporting completion of these requirements to specified congressional committees
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- The right-of-way will only be granted if all specified requirements and reviews are completed and reported to Congress—no automatic approval mechanism
- The bill does not establish a timeline for when Interior must complete these evaluations and reports
- Effects on emergency evacuation times, traffic patterns, or parkway operations are not quantified in the official summary
- The bill does not specify which alternatives Interior must pursue or prioritize before recommending the right-of-way
03 — The Path
Now what?
- House passed the bill by voice vote under suspension of rules on March 3, 2026
- Senate committee reported an amended version on September 17, 2026
- Bill placed on Senate Legislative Calendar as of September 17, 2026
- No scheduled vote date is recorded
Legislative History
Actions.
- Sep 17, 2026 — Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 664.
- Sep 17, 2026 — Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Reported by Senator Lee with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. Without written report.
- Jul 29, 2026 — Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Ordered to be reported without amendment favorably.
- Jul 21, 2026 — Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks. Hearings held.
- Mar 4, 2026 — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
- Mar 3, 2026 — Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
- Mar 3, 2026 — On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H2347)
- Mar 3, 2026 — Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H2347)