Nearly 100 days have passed since the U.S. House of Representatives approved the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act. The bill now awaits Senate approval before it can be sent to the president's desk.
More than 250 outdoor recreation businesses and organizations recently urged the Senate to pass the EXPLORE Act. They stated, "The EXPLORE Act would support rural economies, communities, and our American quality of life. It streamlines efficiencies and updates processes that are critical to 5 million American jobs and over half of all Americans who get outdoors. This bipartisan legislation would appropriately meet the increased demand for access to the outdoors while also protecting public lands and waters for future use."
Stacy Bare, an Army veteran, highlighted how the legislation supports military veterans by providing fee-free recreation passes and improving trail accessibility. Sasha DiGuillian, a professional rock climber, testified before the House Committee on Natural Resources about how EXPLORE will ensure safe and sustainable access for climbers and other recreators on federal lands.
The EXPLORE Act aims to enhance outdoor experiences for all Americans by expanding access to public lands and waters while ensuring their preservation for future generations.
Supporters are encouraged to post on social media tomorrow, July 18th, marking 100 days since the House passed the legislation, urging the Senate to approve it.
For more information on the legislation or access to an updated messaging toolkit, visit our website.