Under Democrat Leader Harry Reid and the Obama Administration, it was made clear that the Senate would not take up the legislation.
Reopening the Park was a focus of Governor Brewer, who was joined by House Speaker Andy Tobin and Senate President Andy Biggs, in writing to officials in the Obama administration asking to pay to keep the park open with private monies.
The Obama administration finally relented as its popularity plummeted amid stories of struggling small businesses who cater to tourists at the national parks.
“I’m gratified the Obama administration agreed to reverse its policy and allow Arizona to reopen Grand Canyon, Arizona’s most treasured landmark and a crucial driver of revenue to the state,” said Governor Brewer.
Under the agreement, the state will pay the National Park Service $651,000 – $93,000 per day – to reopen Grand Canyon and fully fund park operations for up to at least seven days using state and other monies. The State of Arizona urges its congressional delegation to secure reimbursement of all state dollars used to reopen Grand Canyon. The state will continue to assess next steps if the federal shutdown has not ended in those seven days.