Senate Energy and Natural Resources Chair Joe Manchin Eyes Swift Action on Outdoor Recreation Package

Senate Energy and Natural Resources Chair Joe Manchin is optimistic about the progress of a sweeping outdoor recreation package in the Senate. He mentioned that the chamber could be ready to move on the package as soon as next week.

The House had already passed its outdoor recreation bill, H.R. 6492, by voice vote nearly a month ago. Now, Manchin and Sen. John Barrasso are leading the Senate companion bill, S. 873, known as the “America’s Outdoor Recreation Act,” which advanced out of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee last year.

The package aims to overhaul U.S. policy governing recreation on public lands, including measures to increase internet access, streamline permitting, and create new long-distance bike trails. It also includes provisions to increase accessibility for the disabled, provide job opportunities for veterans, and close the nature gap in underserved urban communities.

With bipartisan support for the bill, including praise from Natural Resources ranking member Raúl Grijalva and Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, the path to passing the legislation seems promising. However, the timing of when the bill will reach the Senate floor ultimately depends on Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s willingness to move it.

Overall, the outdoor recreation package is seen as a significant step towards improving and protecting outdoor recreation experiences on public lands and waters. With strong bipartisan support, the bill is expected to make a positive impact once it becomes law.