The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) marked the first anniversary of the EXPLORE Act, highlighting progress in modernizing public land access, supporting local economies, and coordinating federal recreation management.
Passed unanimously by Congress in 2024, the legislation represents the first comprehensive outdoor recreation–specific package in U.S. history and underpins an industry generating $1.2 trillion in economic output and more than 5 million jobs nationwide.
One year after its enactment, the EXPLORE Act is credited with delivering improvements across digital access, federal agency coordination, and recreation infrastructure.
According to a press release, Jessica Wahl Turner, ORR President, emphasized the milestone. “One year in, the EXPLORE Act is already delivering real progress—from streamlining access through digital tools to aligning federal agencies around a shared implementation framework,” she said.
Turner noted the anniversary is both celebratory and a call for continued action. “Bipartisan leadership and private-sector innovation work, and with continued momentum in Year Two, we can ensure every community and every American benefits from this landmark law.”
“We are grateful for the EXPLORE Act bipartisan sponsors and champions in Congress, and for the Administration’s continued partnership and leadership in turning this vision into action,” she added.
House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman, a sponsor of the legislation, highlighted the law’s impact on public land access.
“I’m proud to have championed the EXPLORE Act, which was first-of-its-kind outdoor recreation legislation designed to expand access and recreation opportunities on our beautiful public lands and waters,” he said.
Westerman added that the legislation enhances outdoor enjoyment nationally.
“I am thrilled to see all the ways it has enhanced Americans’ enjoyment of the outdoors a year after its passage. As we enter America’s 250th year, I encourage every American to get outside and explore all that our public lands and waters have to offer.”
U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich, Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, also highlighted the bill’s significance. “I’m thrilled to celebrate one year of the EXPLORE Act — legislation that included my bills, the SOAR Act and the Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act, to expand access to our public lands for all,” he said.
Heinrich emphasized the connection between access and preservation. “This anniversary is a reminder that expanding access and protecting these places must go hand in hand, and I remain committed to making sure our public lands stay open, accessible, and preserved for future generations.”