Reintroduced in March by U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and John Barrasso (R-WY), the SEMA-backed America’s Outdoor Recreation Act of 2023 (S-873) is poised to expand and enhance outdoor recreation opportunities across the country by improving infrastructure and stimulating economic growth in rural communities. This exciting bill is great news for off-road and outdoor enthusiasts—and the industries, communities, and local businesses that support them.
Among other benefits, the AORA would streamline the process for, and reduce the cost of, obtaining special recreation permits, making it easier for more people to access and enjoy public lands. Additionally, federal land management agencies will be required to increase opportunities for both motorized and nonmotorized access to public lands, opening up new and land-friendly adventures for off-road enthusiasts.
The bill, which enjoys bipartisan support and is summarized here, would also direct the Bureau of Land Management and the Forest Service to make maps available to the public. These maps will clearly show where vehicles are allowed to recreate, removing confusion and ensuring responsible off-roading. Off-road enthusiasts will benefit from increased transparency into approved routes, while the environment will benefit from less unintentional off-roading in restricted areas.
Total Truck Centers joins with its supplier partners and affiliated shops to support this legislation, which promises to expand access, enhance infrastructure, promote responsible off-roading, and provide an economic boost to rural communities and the businesses that serve outdoor enthusiasts.
