Time is of the essence for the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act, which contains the Biking on Long Distance Trails (BOLT) Act. This is a call to action to all mountain bikers and trails enthusiasts!
IMBA and our partners have been working for years to develop and pass a package of recreation policy to improve outdoor recreation on public lands. EXPLORE is a comprehensive, bipartisan bill that would improve access to the outdoors for all Americans. EXPLORE includes several key bills that IMBA, our partners, and Outdoor Alliance have helped develop over the course of the last several years. Most notable for mountain bikers, IMBA's Biking on Long Distance Trails (BOLT) Act will identify at least 10 existing long-distance bike trails and identify at least 10 areas where there is opportunity to develop or complete such trails. The bill will also direct the Department of Interior to publish and distribute maps, install signage, and distribute promotional materials.
Other highlights include the Protecting America's Rock Climbing Act (PARC) to safeguard Wilderness climbing, the Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation Act (SOAR) that will improve recreational permitting for outfitters and guides, and permanent direction for the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership and FICOR. When passed, the EXPLORE Act will streamline, support, and simplify management and administrative processes to increase and improve opportunities for outdoor recreation. These changes will give more people access to quality outdoor recreation experiences and support the outdoor recreation economy.
Current Status
In April, we celebrated the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act taking one step closer to becoming law. The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee has negotiated with the House for final bill text, and we are in a short remaining window to pass a final bill this year. There are three remaining options for passage:
- Including EXPLORE in the annual defense spending bill (NDAA)
- Attaching it to the year-end spending bill (a “continuing resolution” or “CR”)
- Passing it by unanimous consent in the Senate and sending it back to the House to pass on its suspension calendar
Call to Action
All of these paths require support from Senate and House leadership. Ask your legislators to pass the EXPLORE Act in 2024!
IMBA continues to work with lawmakers to provide clarity and expertise to ensure opportunities for mountain bikers are not missed in comprehensive outdoor recreation packages like this one, as well as in legislation that impacts funding and access for trails. Opt in to IMBA’s Advocacy eNewsletter to access mountain bike advocacy resources and stay up-to-date on current legislation that impacts mountain bikers.
