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NMMA Celebrates Passage of EXPLORE Act in the Senate

| General Government Relations

Yesterday afternoon, the United States Senate passed by unanimous consent H.R. 6492, the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act, a precedent-setting piece of bipartisan legislation that would significantly improve the public land and water recreation experience for millions of Americans nationwide. 

Led by Senators Manchin and Barrasso and Representatives Westerman and Grijalva, the legislation highlights the significance of outdoor recreation to the economy and sets a foundation for future recreation-focused legislation in Congress.

"The Senate's passage of the EXPLORE Act yesterday, following its passage in the House last month, marks a groundbreaking moment for the $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy—an industry driven by the $230 billion recreational boating sector,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, President and CEO of the National Association of Marine Manufacturers (NMMA). “This transformative legislation underscores the vital role that recreation plays in our national economy and represents a monumental step forward in securing its recognition in Congress. We extend our deepest gratitude to Senators Manchin and Barrasso, along with Representatives Westerman and Grijalva, for their leadership and commitment to the millions of Americans who cherish outdoor recreation."

Specifically, the bill will:

  • Improve access to public lands and waters for outdoor activities
  • Modernize technology utilized by federal land management agencies
  • Streamline the permitting process and reduce fees associated with small businesses who rely on public land recreation
  • Restore and bolster recreation infrastructure
NMMA extends its gratitude to the bipartisan efforts in Congress that led to the passage of the EXPLORE Act and looks forward to seeing it signed into law by the President.