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NCSL Supports EXPLORE Act

December 16, 2024

Majority Leader Schumer and Minority Leader McConnell,

The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), the bipartisan organization representing the legislatures of our Nation's states, territories, and commonwealths, writes in support of the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act. This first-of-its-kind, bipartisan, bicameral bill would support this large and growing industry, supporting partnerships and providing much-needed resources to state and local governments. In November, the Bureau of Economic Analysis released data showing outdoor recreation is a $1.2 trillion dollar industry, providing economic, environmental, and health benefits in every state and territory in the country.

NCSL adopted a resolution calling for passage of this crucial legislation at our 2024 Legislative Summit. Included below is a summary of the policy with a copy attached.

Growing Outdoor Recreation on Public Lands

Outdoor recreation is a major economic driver in America, generating 5 million jobs in 2023 and 3.1% of all U.S. employees during the same time, many of which are in rural areas. It is vital that the federal government, in partnership with state and local governments, ensure that outdoor recreation access is available to all Americans for generations to come. The EXPLORE Act combines several existing bills with new concepts including improved broadband connectivity at developed recreation sites, online collection of recreation fees, federal collaboration with state, local and Tribal governments in identifying and assessing housing, municipal infrastructure and other needs of gateway communities to expand visitation to federal lands and waters, and more.

We welcome the opportunity to work with Congress to pass this important legislation. If you have any additional questions, please contact Ben Nasta.

Sincerely,

Senator Katie Fry Hester
Co-Chair
NCSL Natural Resources, Energy and Environment Committee

Senator Larry Luick
Co-Chair
NCSL Natural Resources, Energy and Environment Committee

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