Apostle Islands National Park and Preserve Act

H.R. 5497 would upgrade the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin to National Park status, making it Wisconsin's first national park. The bill would not change the ownership or management of the area, which would remain under the National Park Service. Sand Island would become a National Preserve to ensure continued hunting access. The bill would direct the Department of the Interior to administer hunting, trapping, and fishing in the same manner as currently done, with no permitting fees charged. Fishing and recreational opportunities would continue to be managed as they are today, and no mining would be allowed.

The bill has passed committee review on a 20-17 vote and is now eligible for a floor vote in the House. The legislation affirms all treaty rights and tribal sovereignty, stating that nothing in the act shall affect any rights granted to tribes, including rights to hunt, trap, fish, and gather. Supporters argue the designation would honor the islands' heritage, protect the Lake Superior area, and strengthen local communities through increased tourism and economic benefits. However, some local municipalities have raised concerns about the lack of coordination with local governments and tribes, the absence of a feasibility study, and questions about infrastructure capacity for increased visitation.