KEY TAKEAWAYS

Utah plans to keep national parks open if a federal shutdown occurs.

The Utah Office of Tourism emphasizes the parks' $3.1 billion economic impact.

Former park superintendents warn of risks with limited staffing during shutdowns.

SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Office of Tourism said it is "committed" to keeping the state's national parks, monuments and other outdoor recreation sites open in the event the federal government shuts down this week.

Congress has been barreling toward a shutdown for months and now faces a short timeframe to agree to a new spending bill before current funding runs out on Wednesday, the first day of the government's 2026 fiscal year. Republicans, who control both chambers of Congress, have asked Democrats to approve a short-term funding bill ahead

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