Senate Committee Advances Outdoor Recreation Act with Wide Industry Support

Image: Danita Delimont Adobe Stock

On May 3, 2022 the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources voted unanimously to advance America’s Outdoor Recreation Act of 2022.

The bill will ensure greater access and opportunities for activities like recreational climbing, mountain biking, and target shooting on public lands, improve recreation infrastructure on Federal land, modernize film and photography permitting, improved permitting processes for outfitters and establish a financial assistance program for businesses setting up near outdoor recreation areas.

This act has received wide bipartisan and industry support.

“Our bipartisan legislation is a monumental achievement for all who enjoy our public lands and shared natural resources,” said Ranking Committee Member John Barrasso. “I will continue to work with Chairman Manchin to get this important package passed by the full Senate and signed into law.”

“Passing the Outdoors for All Act will allow more communities across the country, especially in urban areas, to finally enjoy the benefits only these natural places can provide, while helping build up the green infrastructure we need to take on climate change,” commented Jackie Ostfeld, director of Sierra Club’s Outdoors for All Campaign.

The bill is also being celebrated for its conservation implications.

“We are also tremendously pleased by the committee's attention to protecting critical landscapes for conservation and recreation, including through the CORE Act, Wild Olympics, and the Smith River NRA Expansion Act,” said Louis Geltman, Policy Director, Outdoor Alliance.

The bill will move on to the Senate floor and is expected to be passed into law.