The public comment period has begun. Just so you understand the process, in order to affect a change in the Code of Federal Regulations, the change has to be published in the Federal Register, and offered a public comment period. That’s the part we’re in now. You can examine the proposed rule change here. Basic summary is this:
Under the proposed amendment, an individual will be able to possess, carry, and transport concealed, loaded, and operable firearms within a national park area in the same manner, and to the same extent, that a person may lawfully possess, carry, and transport concealed, loaded and operable firearms in any state park in the state in which the federal park, or that portion thereof, is located. Possession of concealed firearms in national parks as authorized by this section must also conform to applicable federal laws.
This is a big help to those of us in the east who drive thorugh NPS land regularly without realizing it. I occaisionally travel through Valley Forge National Park when I’m heading to visit friends in that part of Chester County, and Independence National Historical Park is part of the City of Philadelphia, and doesn’t have clear boundaries. Now, I would note that buildings within the park will still be considered a federal facility, and still off limits to carry. That’s a different law, and will require an Act of Congress to fix/clarify.
I live in Arizona; which has more federal land as a percentage of its total territory than any state other than Alaska.
For the most part the boundaries are not marked between non-federal land, indian reservations, national forests, and national parks. It is literally impossible to comply with the current regulations.