Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously endorsed the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Act, colloquially known as the Explore Act, marking a significant stride in the realm of outdoor recreation legislation. This 220-page package, now en route to the Senate, stands as one of the most expansive bills dedicated to outdoor recreation in American history.
Crafted to simplify the permitting procedures for outdoor recreation entities, assess internet accessibility at National Parks, delineate potential long-distance bike trails, bolster recreation and tourism economies, and facilitate new rock climbing routes on public land, the Explore Act embodies a comprehensive approach to enhancing and preserving access to the nation’s remarkable public lands and waters.
At its core, the Explore Act carries the imprints of Utah Republican Rep. John Curtis, who lauded it as a demonstration of the collective commitment to safeguarding America’s natural treasures. Garnering bipartisan endorsement within the House, the bill has garnered acclaim from prominent outdoor and environmental advocacy groups including the Sierra Club, the Outdoor Industry Association, and the Specialty Equipment Market Association.
The Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation Act, a pivotal component of the Explore Act, aims to alleviate the bureaucratic hurdles faced by companies reliant on outdoor recreation permits. Key provisions include expediting permit processing and environmental reviews, implementing a permit sharing program for unused permits, and facilitating joint permits for activities spanning multiple agencies’ jurisdictions.
Under the Protecting America’s Rock Climbing provision, rock climbing is formally recognized as an accepted activity within the National Wilderness Preservation System, with provisions for the maintenance of existing climbing routes and the creation of new ones.
Further, the Connect Our Parks initiative seeks to identify areas within national parks lacking adequate broadband and cellular coverage, with subsequent plans for expansion. The Biking On Long Distance Trails provision endeavors to evaluate and develop long-distance bike trails, with potential expansions such as the Bonneville Shoreline Trail.
Additionally, the Explore Act addresses the need for target shooting ranges and the enhancement of infrastructure in gateway communities adjacent to popular outdoor destinations. Provisions also include improvements in parking and restroom facilities through public-private partnerships, as well as measures to enhance accessibility for individuals with disabilities across federal recreational lands and waters.
With its multifaceted approach, the Explore Act emerges as a landmark legislation poised to invigorate outdoor recreation while safeguarding the nation’s natural heritage for generations to come. As it advances to the Senate, anticipation brews for the transformative impact it promises to deliver.