Two U.S. House of Representatives members introduced new legislation Wednesday set to expand public access to the outdoors.
House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) and Ranking Member Raul Grijalva (D-Ariz.) introduced the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act. The legislation is co-sponsored by 22 members.
The Natural Resources Committee is hosting a hearing today on the legislation. Outdoor Recreation Roundtable President Jessica Wahl-Turner will be among the hearing speakers.
“Thanks to bill sponsors Congressmen Bruce Westerman and Raul Grijalva, this legislation will provide federal agencies with new tools they need to address recreation management,” Turner said, “and help more Americans reap the benefits of time spent outside, all while protecting the precious public lands and waters that make it all possible. This is a much-needed and historic step forward.”
ORR said the EXPLORE Act would streamline permitting to improve outdoor access. The association said the act would increase public land and water access, ensure green space access in underserved communities and boost investments in rural economic development.
RVDA President Phil Ingrassia said, “The act will improve and modernize recreation infrastructure on public lands to support everyone who enjoys the great outdoors, including the growing number of RV travelers.”
RVIA President and CEO Craig Kirby said the legislation is crucial to both the RV industry and the wider outdoor recreation industry.
He said, “It remains a significant factor in making sustainable improvements to our nation’s campgrounds and improving the experiences of current and future RVers.”
