In an effort to “encourage the federal and state governments to collaborate on ways to enhance and increase access to public lands,” (Congressman Rob Bishop, R-UT) a bipartisan group of Congressional Representatives and Senators introduced legislation to reduce the bureaucratic red tape impeding outdoors sportsmen and women.
“Hunters and fishers are the stewards of our land and responsible for much of the conservation efforts. This bipartisan bill supports sportsman [sic] and reduces barriers to access the outdoors, while maintaining strong support for conservation. We must work together to protect the environment, endangered species, and our traditions,” said Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) in a joint statement introducing the legislation.
The Recreation Not Red Tape Act will increase access to recreational opportunities for Americans nation-wide by modernizing and streamlining the special recreation permitting process; holding land managers accountable for recreation outcomes; establishing a new National Recreation Area System; increasing veteran participation in outdoor stewardship and rehabilitation programs; and by facilitating private-sector volunteer maintenance programs on our nation’s public lands, said the Congressional statement.
“Our nation's public lands and National Parks are some of our greatest treasures, providing Iowans with the opportunity to hunt, fish, hike, or simply observe wildlife. But as we see all too often, bureaucratic red-tape and burdensome processes can get in the way. This bipartisan bill will help streamline the permitting process for our small businesses and address the maintenance backlogs to ensure outdoor recreational opportunities for folks across the country,” said Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA).
