The U.S. Senate voted on December 19th to pass the EXPLORE Act which includes the Outdoors for All Act, the Military and Veterans in Parks Act, the Every Kid Outdoors program, and the Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation Act. The act was signed.

 
The Outdoors for All Act looks to address the lack of recreation space in underserved communities. The bill was written with the intent to help fund new parks, renovate existing facilities, and the development of infrastructure supporting outdoor education and volunteer opportunities.

The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) released a statement praising the win for the industry. "At ASLA, we believe everyone deserves access to well-designed, sustainable outdoor spaces that provide connection and promote healthy lifestyles." said Torey Carter-Conneen, Hon. ASLA, CAE, ASLA CEO. "This legislation is a step toward a more equitable and inclusive future for underserved communities."

The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) also released a statement congratulating the industry on the major win. "On behalf of NRPA and our more than 60,000 park and recreation professionals and advocates, we are celebrating the passage of Outdoors For All. This critical piece of legislation is a momentous win for the health of communities across the country." said Kristine Stratton, president and CEO of the NRPA. "By providing equitable outdoor recreation opportunities, it will ensure future generations have access to high quality parks and green spaces-and all the life-enhancing benefits they bring to physical, mental, and social well-being."

The Sierra Club published a statement on the update. "This is a rare bipartisan victory during a very divided time in our country. Congress found common ground to improve outdoor accessibility for communities everywhere. For neighborhoods without a park in walking distance, for people with mobility issues, for kids who have yet to experience our country's natural wonders, the EXPLORE Act will improve the lives of families everywhere." said Jackie Ostfeld, director of Sierra Club's Outdoors for All campaign, "By passing the EXPLORE Act, the Senate is bringing us another step closer to ensuring safe, affordable, and equitable access to our parks and public lands. One thing is clear, spending time outdoors is something we can all agree on."

LASN will continue to monitor this legislation as updates are made available.