The America's Living Library Act creates a new federal program to collect and study the genetic material of plants, animals, fungi, and microbes found in America's national parks. Think of it as building a comprehensive genetic library of the living things in our most protected natural areas.

Here's how it works: The U.S. Geological Survey will lead the effort, starting by selecting 5 national parks to begin collecting samples and sequencing their DNA. Within two years, they'll expand to 20 additional parks. Scientists will collect samples, sequence their genomes (their complete genetic code), and store both the physical samples and the genetic data for future research. All the genetic information will be made publicly available through a searchable database so researchers everywhere can access it—though sensitive details like exact collection locations will be kept private to protect the parks and staff.

The program involves multiple federal agencies working together, including the Smithsonian Institution, the Department of Agriculture, and the National Institutes of Health. Physical samples will be stored at the Smithsonian and the Department of Agriculture, ensuring they stay in the United States. The bill also includes important protections: it requires consultation with Native American tribes, follows all existing wildlife protection laws, and includes safeguards to prevent dangerous pathogens from being stored improperly. The program is designed to last 10 years, with Congress planning to fund it through 2031 at increasing levels, starting at $16.5 million annually and growing to $54 million by 2030.