National Park Service Requires Permit for River Baptisms

Lawmaker fights regulation in Ozark mountains

Rep. Jason Smith (R-Mo.) this week vowed to end National Park Service rules that require people to get a permit before holding baptism ceremonies in Ozark National Scenic Riverways (ONSR).

"Federal agencies are truly out of control," Smith said Wednesday. "First they try to regulate children working on their family farms and now they are trying to regulate baptisms.

"I am going to fight these rogue Washington agencies that seem intent on regulating every aspect of our life here in Missouri."