H.R. 2768Passed one chamberEnvironment & energy
Bill orders study on national scenic trail status for Benton MacKaye Trail
Data as of July 11, 2026
HR 2768 requires a one-year federal study on whether the Benton MacKaye Trail should become a National Scenic Trail.45-second read · 4 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
The bill directs the Secretary of Agriculture to study whether the 287-mile Benton MacKaye Trail, which runs through Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina, should be designated a National Scenic Trail. It amends the National Trails System Act to require a formal feasibility study completed within one year and submitted to Congress. The bill does not create the designation itself; further legislation would be needed for that.
Who does it affect?
The U.S. Forest Service, the Benton MacKaye Trail Association, and communities near the trail in Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina are directly affected. Hikers and outdoor tourists could see effects if a future designation follows.
Why does it matter?
The study's outcome will determine whether Congress later considers legislation granting the trail official National Scenic Trail status, which typically affects funding, promotion, and protection levels. No designation or funding change occurs from this bill alone.
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- House committee
- House vote
- Senate — You are here
- President's desk
Right now: it passed the House and now goes to the Senate. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the President.
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Official title
Benton MacKaye National Scenic Trail Feasibility Study Act of 2026
- Introduced:
- April 9, 2025
- Latest action:
- June 3, 2026
Received in the Senate. Read twice. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 426.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
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