The bipartisan Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act was unanimously passed by the U.S. Senate on December 19 and now heads to President Biden's desk to be signed into law. First introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representatives Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Raul Grijalva (D-AZ), the bill passed in the House in April. The EXPLORE Act aims to improve and grow America’s outdoor recreation economy while delivering sustainable economic boosts to rural communities. The comprehensive package contains several ground-breaking recreation bills, including the Military and Veterans in Parks (MVP) Act, Outdoors for All Act, Outdoor Recreation Act, Biking on Long Distance Trails Act, and many others.

This historic legislation will significantly enhance and expand access to outdoor recreation opportunities on America’s public lands and waters. PeopleForBikes strongly advocated for the passage of the EXPLORE Act and the companion America’s Outdoor Recreation Act so all Americans have the opportunity to experience and explore our nation’s natural environments and landscapes.

The EXPLORE Act will facilitate greater access to outdoor recreation by:

• Modernizing permitting processes for guides and outfitters on public lands
• Building adaptive trails for veterans and people with disabilities
• Improving access to recreation on America’s public lands and waters
• Ensuring access to green spaces in underserved communities by prioritizing funding for local outdoor recreation projects
• Developing, improving, and completing long-distance trails
• Investing in rural economic development
  

“This rare, bipartisan achievement represents a monumental step forward in our nation’s investment in outdoor recreation and bicycling,” said PeopleForBikes President and CEO Jenn Dice. “By expanding access to our public lands and supporting opportunities for everyone to enjoy the outdoors, the EXPLORE Act underscores the power of recreation to connect all Americans. It’s a win for the outdoor economy, recreational access, and the spirit of exploration that unites us all.”

A recent assessment by the U.S. Department of Commerce found that the growth of the outdoor recreation industry is outpacing the broader domestic economy and its economic impact totals $1.2 trillion. The passage of the EXPLORE Act comes at a critical time, highlighting our country’s commitment to embracing outdoor recreation and that access to our public lands and waters is a priority for all Americans.